Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to 76 detained #EndBadGovernance protesters, setting the bail amount at N760 million in total. Each protester, facing serious charges such as conspiracy to destabilize Nigeria, treason, and incitement to mutiny, is required to secure two sureties as part of the bail conditions. The decision has highlighted the intensity of the recent demonstrations, which erupted in response to worsening economic conditions and political discontent across Nigeria.
The protests took place in early August 2024 and spanned major cities, including Abuja, Kaduna, and Kano. Participants gathered to express grievances over inflation, unemployment, and government policies, with many chanting slogans for reform and carrying banners. Reports indicate that security forces responded with tear gas, arrests, and, in some cases, live ammunition to disperse the crowds. Some protesters were also accused of carrying Russian flags and chanting for military intervention, according to government sources.
The charges brought against the protesters by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, include treason, inciting mutiny, and damage to public property. The police allege that the protesters caused significant damage to various government facilities, such as the National Communications Commission office, and looted property from these sites.
