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Kano Attorney-General Orders Withdrawal of Charges Against #EndBadGovernance Protesters

Kano Attorney-General has ordered withdrawal of charges against #EndBadGovernance protesters following Citizens’ Gavel petition, reaffirming citizens’ right to peaceful protest.

The fight for justice and civil liberties in Nigeria has received a boost with the Attorney-General of Kano State directing the withdrawal of charges against #EndBadGovernance protesters in the state.

The directive which came through the Director of Public Prosecution in Kano State follows a petition  by a civil society organisation, Citizens’ Gavel on November 5, 2024, asking the Attorney-General to exercise his constitutional authority to dismiss the case.

While reaffirming the rights of citizens to peacefully express their grievances without fear of persecution, the Communications Associate of Citizens’ Gavel, Rachael Adio, in a statement described the withdrawal of the charges as a significant victory for justice

Arise News reports that the CSO had in the petition called for the dismissal of charges brought against the protesters who were arrested in Kano State during nationwide demonstrations held from August 1 to August 10, 2024 over alleged treason, unlawful assembly, and public disturbance.

The statement reads, Citizens’ Gavel is excited to announce a landmark development in the fight for justice and civil liberties in Nigeria. 

“On the 27th of January, 2025, the Honourable Attorney-General of Kano State, acting through the Director of Public Prosecution, officially ordered the discontinuance and withdrawal of all criminal charges against #EndBadGovernance protesters in Kano State.

“This decision follows a petition submitted by Citizens’ Gavel on November 5, 2024, urging the Honourable Attorney General to exercise his constitutional authority under Section 211(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). 

“The petition called for the dismissal of charges brought against peaceful protesters who were arrested in Kano State during nationwide demonstrations held from August 1 to August 10, 2024. These demonstrators faced baseless allegations, including conspiracy to commit treason, unlawful assembly, and public disturbance.

“Five months and numerous follow ups after, the withdrawal of these charges marks a significant victory for justice, reaffirming the rights of citizens to peacefully express their grievances without fear of persecution. 

“Citizens’ Gavel commends the Honourable Attorney General of Kano State for upholding the rule of law and respecting the constitutional freedoms of Nigerians.

“We remain committed to advocating for justice, protecting civil liberties, and ensuring accountability within the justice system. We believe that a Nigeria where the voices of the people are respected and their rights safeguarded is possible.”

Friday Olokor

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