…to monitor trials of protesters
The Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, has announced it will provide free legal representation to individuals facing trial for their involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protests.
The nationwide demonstrations, which took place from 1 to 10 August 2024 were driven by widespread economic hardship and included demands for reduced governance costs and improved food security.
NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe disclosed the intervention on Wednesday, stating, “I have directed the branches of the Nigerian Bar Association @NigBarAssoc to monitor the trials of the #EndBadGovernance protesters.”
He added that a pro bono support initiative has been launched to assist those without legal representation. This, according to him, is to ensure that “the rule of law is upheld, the human rights of defendants are protected, and justice is served.”
The NBA Citizens’ Liberties Committee, NBA-CLC, has been assigned to work closely with local NBA branches and human rights committees to ensure fair trials for the protesters.
Currently, 124 protesters are in custody in the Federal Capital Territory.
Ten of these individuals appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, where they pleaded not guilty to charges including treason, terrorism, and inciting mutiny.
Justice Emeka Nwite remanded them at Kuje Correctional Centre, with a bail hearing set for 11 September 2024.
“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,” Osigwe added.
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