The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has made adjustments to the ongoing hearing in the case involving 75 #EndBadGovernance protesters, aged 12 to 15, who appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday.
The underaged protesters face 10 charges, including terrorism, attempted government overthrow, and alleged mutiny due to their involvement in recent nationwide protests.
The case has sparked significant backlash against the Federal Government, with civil society organizations and opposition leaders condemning the detention and prosecution of minors. They have called on the government to address the issue promptly.
In a statement released Friday night, Fagbemi acknowledged the case, noting that his office would review certain aspects to make an informed decision.
clarified that while he cannot alter the court’s remand order or the adjournment to January, he has directed the Nigeria Police to transfer the case file to his office and hand it over to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPPF).
“It has come to my notice that the police have araigned individuals connected to the #EndBadGovernance protests for offences including treason,” he said.
“There are issues that need review, and I am aware the court has ordered their detention and adjourned the case to January. While I cannot change the court’s decision, I have instructed the transfer of the case file to the DPPF, with directions to explore options for an earlier hearing.
Justice Obiora Egwuatu granted bail to 67 of the 76 protesters, setting bail at N10 million each. Those under 15 years are required to present a civil servant as a surety.
Witnesses described the minors as appearing malnourished, with several visibly unwell and unable to stand. Four had to be rushed out of the courtroom due to their weakened state.
The protesters were detained during protests held nationwide from August 1 to August 10, fueled by economic hardship that led Nigerians to voice their grievances publicly.