The aftermath of the recent 10-day #EndBadGovernance protests has led to significant legal and humanitarian concerns.
A comprehensive survey spanning 11 states reveals that at least 1,423 people were arrested and charged in connection with the demonstrations, according to The Nigeria Lawyer. Many of these detainees are currently held in prison custody awaiting trial, often without access to legal representation or the opportunity for bail.
The protests were organised by youth groups to highlight the severe economic downturn and widespread hunger in Nigeria.
The protests, which were initially peaceful, faced escalating violence in some northern states.
This escalation resulted in loss of life, property destruction, and mass arrests of those deemed “rioters.”
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has reported challenges in providing legal aid to the detained protesters.
NBA has indicated that it is still in the process of collating data on the number of individuals in need of legal assistance, underscoring the scale of the crisis and the urgent need for legal support for those affected.
However, Kano State recorded the highest number of arrests, with a total of 832 individuals detained. This includes 600 alleged rioters, 76 individuals charged with displaying Russian flags, and others arrested for looting and violating curfew regulations.
In Sokoto, 110 people were arrested, many of whom remain in custody following summary hearings by a mobile court.
Kano state saw the highest number of arrests at 832, including 600 alleged rioters, 76 for displaying Russian flags, and others for looting and curfew violations. Sokoto had 110 arrests, with many protesters still languishing in prison after summary hearings before a mobile court.
Arrest figures by state are as follows: Borno 97, Katsina 90, Bauchi 60, Plateau 51, Yobe 51, Kaduna 50, Nasarawa 40, Niger 23, and Zamfara 19.
Meanwhile, in a wave of discontent, many Nigerians have criticised the recent mass arrests for allegedly failing to distinguish between peaceful demonstrators and violent offenders.
Many detainees have been held without bail for extended periods, with trial dates often scheduled more than a month away.
Amid the escalating tensions, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), which had pledged legal support for protesters whose rights might be infringed, has been notably absent from courtrooms across the country where arraignments have occurred.
Mr Chinonye Obiagwu, SAN, Chairman of the NBA Human Rights Institute and member of the NBA Free Legal Support Team for #EndBadGovernance protesters stated that while the NBA had not been present in all courts, it was actively intervening on behalf of some protesters in Abuja.
According to Obiagwu, a lawsuit is being filed for those who were allegedly harassed and beaten by security forces at the MKO Abiola Stadium— the designated venue for the protests.
“The branches of the NBA were mandated to provide legal assistance to anyone arrested or whose human rights were violated during the protest,” Obiagwu explained.
“We have received numerous reports from various branches about the support provided, though data is still being compiled at the central NBA level,” he said.
Obiagwu also noted that several protesters, including women, faced violence from law enforcement at the MKO Abiola Stadium— the very location sanctioned by the court for peaceful demonstrations.
He added that the NBA Human Rights Institute is now pursuing legal action to address these grievances and ensure the protection of the right to peaceful protest.
