A dramatic scene unfolded at the Federal High Court in Abuja when a minor, among 75 suspects aged between 12 and 15, fainted as they were brought for arraignment on charges of terrorism, attempted government overthrow, and alleged mutiny related to their involvement in nationwide protests.

The suspects, who were detained since their arrest on August 3rd, faced a total of 10 charges in connection with the recent ‘EndBadGovernance’ protests. As trial Justice Obiora Egwuatu prepared to read the charges, one 15-year-old defendant collapsed, prompting an immediate halt to the proceedings. The judge quickly retreated to his chambers as courtroom lawyers rushed to assist the frail boy, who was taken to the court’s clinic while his fellow defendants wept in distress.

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Mr. Deji Adeyanju, one of the lawyers representing the minors, stated that they had been held in police custody for over 80 days. The group of 76 defendants, charged under case number FCH/ABJ/CS/503/2024, were apprehended in connection with protests in Abuja and Kano. The police allegations, articulated by a legal team led by DCP Simon Lough, SAN, claim that the defendants conspired to commit felonies aimed at destabilizing Nigeria during protests held from July 31 to August 4.

The charges include treason under Section 96 of the Penal Code, with severe penalties outlined in Section 97. The courtroom incident highlights the tense atmosphere surrounding this high-profile case involving minors and raises questions about the treatment of young protesters in Nigeria.

This is a developing story.

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