Nigerian Government Detains 75 Protesters, Including Minors, Over Terrorism Allegations
In a move that has sparked widespread condemnation, the Nigerian government has ordered the remand of 75 protesters, including minors, over terrorism allegations stemming from their participation in the #EndBadGovernance protests earlier this month. The Federal High Court in Abuja granted the police’s request for a 60-day detention order, citing section 66(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, section 35(1)(C) of the Nigerian constitution, and section 299 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.
According to the court filing, at least 28 individuals among the detainees are underage, with 22 minors facing a 60-day detention in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Amnesty International has condemned the court’s remand order, calling for the immediate release of the minors and accusing the authorities of subjecting them to an "unfair trial."
The organization argued that some of the arrested minors might have been picked up by security forces on the streets during the protests, and are now at risk of being tried on "trumped up charges." Amnesty International also highlighted concerns over the authorities’ treatment of children during arrest and detention, as well as the denial of their legal rights.
The #EndBadGovernance protests, which took place between August 1 and 10, were sparked by economic hardship and bad governance in the country. Protesters blamed the hardship on the government’s economic policies, including the removal of subsidies on petrol and the floating of the naira. The protests sought the reversal of the fuel price hike, restoration of affordable electricity tariffs, and reduction of import duties to previous rates.
The Nigerian government has launched an extensive crackdown on the protesters, including arresting and making moves to block the accounts of the organizers. The move has been met with widespread criticism, with many calling for the government to respect the rights of peaceful protesters and to address the underlying issues driving the protests.
