The 10 suspects were charged with treason and conspiracy to incite insurrection by the federal court in Abuja, Reuters reported on September 2, citing lawyer Inibehe Effiong.
The suspects were arrested in August following mass protests sparked by rising living costs in the country.
In addition to the main charges, additional charges were brought against the suspects, including inciting a military mutiny, arson of government buildings and disturbing public order.
If convicted, they face the death penalty.
The defendants’ lawyers have secured their release on bail, but the final court decision will be made on September 11.
It should be noted that the protests that began on August 1 in Nigeria were triggered by the economic crisis, the threat of famine and rising prices. President Bola Tinubu called for dialogue and promised to stabilise the situation. However, many participants in the movement, supported by well-known public figures, announced their intention to continue the protests.
“We will continue to fight,” protesters said, despite government overtures. Economic reforms introduced by Tinubu after his election in May 2023 have led to the removal of fuel subsidies, rising prices and the collapse of the national currency, sparking discontent and protests across the country.
Source: Rossa Primavera
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