The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced it will provide free legal representation to individuals facing trial for participating in the #EndBadGovernance protests.
The nationwide demonstrations, between August 1 and 10, 2024, were in response to economic hardships and included demands for reduced governance costs, reinstatement of petrol subsidies, and food security.
NBA President Afam Osigwe revealed the initiative on his X handle, stating, “I have directed the branches of the Nigerian Bar Association to monitor the trials of the #EndBadGovernance protesters.” He also launched a pro bono support initiative to assist those lacking legal representation.
The NBA Citizens’ Liberties Committee (NBA-CLC) will work with local NBA branches and human rights committees to ensure proper legal proceedings for the defendants. The NBA will oversee the trials to protect the defendants’ rights and ensure due process is followed.
Currently, 124 protesters are in custody, with ten already facing charges in a federal high court in Abuja. They have been accused of treason, conspiracy, and inciting mutiny, among other serious charges.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
