Nigeria Charges 76 People with Treason
By Camillus Eboh
ABUJA (Reuters) – Nigeria has charged 76 individuals, including 30 minors, with treason and inciting a military coup following deadly protests in August against economic hardships.
The protests, which erupted in Abuja, Lagos, and other cities, were fueled by discontent over economic reforms that resulted in rampant inflation and increasing difficulties for ordinary Nigerians. President Bola Tinubu has pledged to continue these reforms, asserting that they are essential for the country's stability.
Amnesty International reported that at least 13 individuals lost their lives during confrontations with security forces on the first day of protests.
A rights organization indicated that the minors were detained by the Nigerian police since August for their involvement in protests against the nation's growing insecurity and deprivation.
According to the charge sheet, the suspects were investigated between July and August. A police spokesperson did not respond to inquiries regarding the minors' detention.
The minors have been granted bail, and their case is scheduled to go to trial in January, as stated by their lawyers.
Currently, Nigerians are facing a severe cost-of-living crisis and increasing insecurity, particularly affecting the farming sector, which is plagued by armed gangs kidnapping residents and school children for ransom in the northern regions.
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