Peaceful protesters charged with treason while bandits flaunt their crimes online – Adeyanju
Following a Federal High Court order on Monday, September 2, to remand some #EndBadGovernance protesters at Kuje Medium Correctional Centre after they were charged with treason, one of their lawyers, Deji Adeyanju, expressed deep frustration.
Adeyanju highlighted the contrast between the harsh treatment of peaceful protesters and the freedom enjoyed by bandits, who are often seen on platforms like TikTok.
Adeyanju criticized the Tinubu-led government for charging protesters who were merely expressing their discontent with the country’s situation. Despite widespread calls for the protesters’ release, the government proceeded with the treason charges.
Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the protesters’ remand pending the hearing and ruling on their bail application scheduled for September 11, 2024.
Adeyanju said, “It is truly disheartening that peaceful protesters are facing treason charges while bandits are not held accountable. The government’s actions are both surprising and troubling.”
He also criticized the recent arrest of another protester, who was detained in a church and labeled an armed robber, as an example of the government’s overreach.
“It’s deeply upsetting that we have reached this point as a nation,” Adeyanju added. “It is very unfortunate that freedom of assembly, which is a constitutionally protected right, is being criminalized.”
Despite these challenges, Adeyanju expressed confidence in the legal team’s readiness for the upcoming hearing. “We are fully prepared for the September 11 hearing on their bail applications,” he said.
He concluded by asserting that the government’s actions reveal a troubling disregard for justice and the rights of its citizens.
