Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for directing the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi SAN, to release minors arrested and facing prosecution over their alleged involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protest.
In a statement to Vanguard, Falana noted that while dropping treason charges against minors is a positive step, it is insufficient. He urged Fagbemi to also discontinue the charges against the remaining 101 protesters.
Falana stated, “Following President Bola Tinubu’s directive to withdraw the treason charge against the malnourished children, it is expected that the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi SAN, will formally discontinue this baseless charge by filing a nolle prosequi application at the Federal High Court.
“The Attorney-General should also withdraw the case against the remaining 101 protesters, as there is no credible evidence to support the treason charge from the #EndBadGovernance protests held across multiple states last August.”
Falana added, “In an attempt to substantiate the serious charge of treason against the 130 defendants, including 29 minors, the Police Prosecutor intended to present items such as 76 Russian flags, two fire extinguishers, two prepaid meters, arrest letters, and suspects’ statements in court, which only risk exposing the Federal Government to further ridicule.” (Vanguard)