- 15-year-old defendant collapses in Federal High Court, Abuja.
- 76 individuals, mostly minors, to be arraigned for #EndBadGovernance protests.
- Charges include conspiracy to commit felony and treason.
- Defendants allegedly conspired to destabilize Nigeria (July 31 – August 4).
- Minors spent over 80 days in police custody.
- Lawyer Deji Adeyanju represents defendants.
- Proceedings halted due to defendant’s collapse.
- Defendants face 10-count charge marked: FCH/ABJ/CS/503/2024.
A disturbing incident occurred today at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where a 15-year-old defendant collapsed before the trial. The minor was among 76 individuals, mostly minors, set to be arraigned by the Nigerian Police Force for participating in the recent #EndBadGovernance protests .
As the charges were about to be read, the young defendant slumped, prompting Justice Obiora Egwuatu to halt proceedings and return to his chambers. Lawyers quickly rushed the frail-looking boy to the court’s clinic as his co-defendants, many of whom are also minors, wept uncontrollably .
According to activist lawyer Deji Adeyanju, the minors have spent over 80 days in police custody. The 76 defendants face a 10-count charge, including allegations of conspiracy to commit felony and treason .
Charges and Allegations:
• Conspiracy to Commit Felony: The defendants allegedly conspired together to destabilize Nigeria between July 31 and August 4 in Abuja and Kano metropolis .
• Treason: The defendants are accused of committing treason, an offense contrary to Section 96 of the Penal Code and punishable under section 97 of the law .
The incident has raised concerns about the treatment and welfare of the minors involved in the protests.
