A human rights lawyer, Mr. Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, has urged the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Mr. Abubakar Malami, to withdraw charges against protesters arrested during the End Bad Governance protests.
Olumide-Fusika argued that the charges were baseless and aimed at stifling freedom of expression and assembly.
“The protesters were exercising their constitutional rights, and the government’s attempt to silence them is undemocratic,” he said.
The lawyer’s request comes after several protesters were arrested and charged with various offenses, including conspiracy, incitement, and breach of peace.
Olumide-Fusika contended that the charges were trumped-up and designed to intimidate and harass citizens who dare to speak out against government policies.
“The AGF should uphold the rule of law and protect citizens’ rights, rather than being used to suppress dissenting voices,” he added.
The End Bad Governance protests, which began in June, have seen Nigerians take to the streets to demand better governance, improved economy, and an end to corruption.
Human rights organizations have condemned the government’s response to the protests, citing excessive use of force, arbitrary arrests, and detention.
The AGF’s office has yet to respond to Olumide-Fusika’s request, but the move has been hailed by civil society groups as a significant step towards protecting citizens’ rights.
