ABUJA: Felicia Udeji Reporting
In a ruling that has raised eyebrows, Justice Emeka Nwite of a Federal High Court in Abuja granted bail to 10 #EndBadGovernance protesters who were arrested and detained for treason, among other charges.
The bail was set at N10m each, with one surety in like sum.
The protesters, who were demonstrating against hunger and poverty, were arrested and detained for their involvement in the protests.
Their lawyers argued that they should be presumed innocent until proven guilty, citing the Nigerian criminal justice system’s stipulations.
Justice Nwite agreed with the argument, stating that “anybody charged with a criminal offence must be presumed innocent until proven guilty.”
He further said, “I have carefully considered the submission of the counsel on both divides. I hereby grant the defendants bail notwithstanding the crime.
The bail is hereby granted to the defendants applicant in the sum of N10m each and one surety in like sum.”
The bail condition has sparked debate, with some questioning whether the amount is reasonable, considering the protesters’ economic situation.
The protesters were demonstrating against hunger and poverty, and it is unclear how they will be able to afford the N10m bail.
The case has highlighted the challenges faced by those who are economically disadvantaged in the Nigerian justice system.
While the bail condition may be seen as a way to ensure that the defendants appear in court, it also raises questions about access to justice for those who cannot afford it
Nigeria Judiciary, unfortunately is so corrupt not to be at anytime taken serious. They’ll soon breed fearless, and heartless hitmen