The Kano State Government has officially withdrawn all criminal charges against #EndBadGovernance protesters, marking a significant victory for civil liberties and justice in Nigeria.
The decision was made by the Attorney General of Kano State, who, through the Director of Public Prosecutions, ordered the discontinuation of the charges on January 27, 2025.
The charges stemmed from nationwide protests held between August 1 and 10, 2024, during which demonstrators voiced their concerns over governance issues. Many protesters were arrested and accused of conspiracy to commit treason, unlawful assembly, and public disturbance.
According to a statement by Citizens’ Gavel, a legal advocacy group, the withdrawal followed a petition submitted on November 5, 2024, urging the Attorney General to dismiss the charges under Section 211(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution.
“Five months later, the withdrawal of these charges marks a significant victory for justice, reaffirming the rights of citizens to peacefully express their grievances without fear of persecution,” the statement read.The group also revealed that it had filed Fundamental Human Rights Enforcement Applications and provided free legal support to the affected protesters.
Citizens’ Gavel praised the Kano State Attorney General for upholding the rule of law and respecting constitutional freedoms.
“We remain committed to advocating for justice, protecting civil liberties, and ensuring accountability within the justice system. We believe that a Nigeria where the rights of the people to dissent and peacefully protest are safeguarded is possible,” the statement added.
