In a significant development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed the case against 119 protesters linked to the nationwide #EndBadGovernance demonstration.
Presided over by Judge Obiora Egwuatu, the court struck out the suit following an application by M.D. Abubakar, counsel to the Attorney-General of the Federation, AGF.
Cyber Reporters reports that Abubakar had sought to take over and discontinue the case, citing Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers the AGF to intervene in and halt any criminal proceedings initiated by other entities, including the Inspector General of Police.
During the court session, Abubakar requested the court to allow the AGF to assume control of the case.
With no objections raised by the defense lawyers, Justice Egwuatu granted the request and dismissed the charges.
Notably, the accused individuals were not present in court; however, the judge ordered their immediate release from prison.
This decision marks a crucial turning point in the ongoing debate surrounding the #EndBadGovernance protests.
The #EndBadGovernance protests have been a subject of contention, with many arguing that the demonstrations are a legitimate expression of citizens’ frustrations with the current state of governance.
Others have raised concerns about the potential for unrest and instability. The court’s decision has been met with varied reactions.
Some have welcomed the move as a victory for the protection of human rights and the rule of law. Others have expressed skepticism, questioning the motivations behind the AGF’s intervention.
