The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) says it would provide legal representation for persons facing trial for participating in the #EndBadGovernance protest.
Nigerians staged a 10-day nationwide protest against economic hardship from August 1.
The protesters demanded a reduction in the cost of governance, a return of petrol subsidy, food security, and fiscal discipline, among others.
The demonstration turned violent in parts of the country, with looting and vandalism recorded in some states.
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The police announced the arrest of alleged perpetrators and secured an order to detain them for 60 days pending the conclusion of investigations.
There are currently 124 protesters are in prison custody in the federal capital territory (FCT).
Already, 10 of the 124 persons took their plea before a federal high court in Abuja.
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They pleaded not guilty to a six-count charge bordering on treason, intent to destabilise Nigeria, conspiracy to commit felony and inciting mutiny — which are punishable under section 97 of the Penal Code.
In a statement on Wednesday, Afam Osigwe, NBA president, said he has directed branches of the association to monitor the trials of the #EndBadGovernance protesters.
“Additionally, I have launched a pro bono support initiative for protesters who lack legal representation,” he said.
“The Nigerian Bar Association Citizens’ Liberties Committee (NBA-CLC) has been tasked with liaising closely with the chairmen and human rights committees of NBA branches in regions where protesters are currently being prosecuted. This ensures that no defendant suffers injustice.
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“The NBA legal team will continue to monitor court proceedings to ensure that trials are conducted with strict adherence to due process, safeguarding the legal rights of all defendants.
“The Nigerian Bar Association legal teams are in courts and will continue to monitor proceedings to ensure that the rule of law is upheld, the human rights of defendants are protected, and justice is served.”
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