Nigerian authorities have dropped treason and other charges against dozens of protesters, including more than 30 minors, who were detained in August following anti-government demonstrations.
This decision follows intense public outcry after footage showed four teenagers collapsing in court last Friday, reportedly from malnourishment.
President Bola Tinubu called for the immediate release of the detained minors—some as young as 14—and ordered an investigation into the actions of the police and other officials involved in their arrest and prosecution.
The footage of the youths writhing in pain has reignited national concern over their treatment and the prolonged detention they endured. Initially, reports indicated that 27 minors were affected, but recent updates reveal additional detainees, many of whom are between 14 and 17 years old.
The detainees had been held for nearly three months after participating in the #EndBadGovernance protests, which erupted across the country in response to Nigeria’s escalating cost-of-living crisis. Some demonstrations escalated into violent clashes with security forces, with police reporting seven deaths, though rights groups estimate the death toll at 23. Nearly 700 people were arrested nationwide during the protests.
In court, several individuals were accused of displaying Russian flags and allegedly plotting to overthrow the government. The charges have now been withdrawn, but the event has highlighted calls for accountability and reform in how security forces handle civilian protests in Nigeria.
