The administration of President Bola Tinubu is pursuing the death penalty for ten Nigerian protesters who participated in the #EndBadGovernance demonstrations.
These protests were held in response to the widespread hardship, insecurity, and dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of national issues.
The protesters now face charges of treason, a serious offense punishable by death under Nigerian law.
This troubling development has been confirmed by a court document, with file number FHC/ABJ/CR/454/2024, on Monday, which reveals the government’s intention to impose the death penalty on the accused individuals.
The protesters facing these charges are Michael Tobiloba Adaramoye, Adeyemi Abiodun Abayomi, Suleiman Yakubu, Opaluwa Eleojo Simon, Angel Love Innocent, Buhari Lawal, Mosiu Sadiq, Bashir Bello, Nuradeen Khamis, Abdulsalam Zubairu
Since the nationwide protests ended last month, there has been a crackdown on participants by security agencies.
Hundreds of people, including minors, have been arrested in connection with their involvement in the demonstrations.
Many of those detained have not been formally arraigned in court, raising concerns about due process and human rights violations.
Critics and human rights organizations have strongly condemned the government’s repressive actions, describing them as deeply disturbing.
They argue that the government’s response to the peaceful protests, including the arrests and charges of treason, represents a harsh crackdown on freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly.
The situation has drawn national and international attention, with many calling on the government to respect the rights of the protesters and to address the underlying issues that led to the demonstrations instead of resorting to punitive measures.
