EndBadGovernance Protest: Police Dismiss Minors’ Fainting in Court as Staged Incident

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) on Saturday addressed the arraignment of 76 individuals, including minors, on charges of terrorism, arson, and treasonable felony linked to the #EndBadGovernance protests. 

During the court proceedings on Friday, four of the alleged protesters collapsed, with police alleging that the incident was a "deliberate and scripted" move to draw negative media attention.

In a statement issued by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, the NPF emphasized its commitment to due process and adherence to the rule of law. 

“These serious allegations encompass offences such as the destruction of public property and threats to national security,” Adejobi said, adding that the police had ensured all detainees received necessary care, including medical attention.

Responding to public criticism over the presence of minors among the defendants, Adejobi clarified that Nigerian law allows individuals over the age of seven to face legal charges. 

"The only exemption from criminal liability under the law is for those below seven years old," Adejobi explained. "The youngest of the accused is around 13, which is within the legal threshold for accountability."

This statement followed public outrage over the arraignment of minors in the Federal High Court, Abuja, on Friday. 

The charges, brought on behalf of the Federal Government, accuse some protesters of turning the demonstrations violent and displaying foreign flags, including those from Russia, which authorities say could signal external influences.

In response to criticism over the court incident, the police underscored their commitment to respecting human dignity and rights. 

Medical aid was swiftly provided to those who fainted, further demonstrating, according to the NPF, a balanced approach that combines justice with compassion.

The court granted bail to 72 of the defendants, setting the bail amount at N10 million each, while four minors in poor health were exempted from the charges. 

The remaining defendants pleaded not guilty to the allegations.