Kano Withdraws Criminal Charges Against #EndBadGovernance Protesters

The attorney general of Kano State, Haruna Dederi, has ordered the discontinuance and withdrawal of all criminal charges against #EndBadGovernance protesters in the northwestern state.

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

Citizens’ Gavel, a civic-tech not-for-profit/non-governmental organisation, described the decision in a statement yesterday by its communications associate, Rachael Adio, as a landmark development in the fight for justice and civil liberties in Nigeria.

Adio commended the attorney general of Kano State for upholding the rule of law and respecting the constitutional freedoms of Nigerians and affirmed the group’s commitment to advocating for justice, protecting civil liberties and ensuring accountability within the justice system.

“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 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.

‘Fundamental human rights enforcement applications were also filed in court, with Citizens’ Gavel providing free legal support and representation to the affected victims before this landmark decision came.

“Five months 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. We believe that a Nigeria where the rights of the people to dissent and peaceful protest is safeguarded is possible,” the statement added.