TEN Nigerians are facing the death penalty after being charged with treason in connection with last month’s nationwide protests over the cost-of-living crisis, Reuters reports. The demonstrators, who were also accused of conspiring to incite the military to mutiny, participated in large-scale protests that swept across Nigeria, driven by growing discontent over the rising cost of living.
The protests, which drew thousands to the streets, were met with a harsh response from security forces. According to Amnesty International, at least 13 people lost their lives in the crackdown, though security forces have denied using lethal force.
According to Reuters, the accused individuals appeared before the Abuja Federal High Court on Monday, where they pleaded not guilty to the charges. If convicted, they could face the death penalty, as noted by human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong.
State prosecutors, in court documents seen by Reuters, alleged that the protesters conspired to destabilize the country, committing acts of treason. Additional charges under Nigeria’s penal code include inciting the military to mutiny, arson of government buildings, and disturbing public peace.
Lawyers representing the accused sought bail, but the request was opposed by state prosecutors. A decision on the bail application is expected on September 11, when the trial is scheduled to commence.
Reuters reports that Amnesty International has condemned the charges and called for the unconditional release of all those detained during the protests. “These are blatantly trumped-up charges that must be immediately withdrawn,” said Isa Sanusi, Amnesty International Nigeria’s director.
The demonstrations were largely fueled by widespread frustration with economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu, who has been in office since May 2023. The reforms, including currency devaluation and increases in the cost of petrol and electricity, have exacerbated economic hardship, with Nigerians grappling with soaring inflation.
