Court Proceeds with Treason Trial of 3 Minors, 16 Others Over #EndBadGovernance Protests

Maiduguri Court Resumes Trial of 19 Accused of Treason Over Anti-Governance Protests

A Maiduguri High Court in Borno State on Monday resumed the trial of 19 individuals, including three minors, who were arrested in August for allegedly participating in the #EndBadGovernance protests. The protests centered on grievances against hunger and economic hardship⁸ in the country.

The suspects were charged with treason by the Nigeria Police Force for their alleged roles in organizing and participating in the demonstrations. The case is being heard at Maiduguri High Court 10 under Justice Aisha Mohammed Ali.

According to the charge sheets, the minors, aged between 14 and 17, were accused of conspiring with others to create a social media group called “Zanga-zanga” (protest) on platforms like WhatsApp and TikTok. Prosecutors allege the group planned to take up arms against the state, a crime punishable under Section 79 of the Borno State Penal Code Law, 2023.

Additionally, 11 other defendants are accused of publicly displaying the Russian flag, a violation of Section 42 and punishable under Section 76(b) of the same Penal Code. All the accused have pleaded not guilty to the charges.

This development comes weeks after President Bola Tinubu ordered the release of underage children facing similar charges at an Abuja Federal High Court. The release, announced by Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, followed widespread national and international criticism.