Suspects Faint During Abuja ‘End Bad Governance’ Trial
Four defendants collapsed in the dock, halting proceedings as 72 others pleaded not guilty and were remanded pending bail.
Proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja were suspended today after some suspects, brought in for arraignment over their alleged involvement in the ‘End Bad Governance’ protest, collapsed, Warri Sentinel learnt.
The suspects, Usman Fatihu (21), Muhammed Yahaya (14), Muktar Ishak Alhassan (16), and Mustapha Ibrahim (18) fainted shortly after entering the dock to enter their pleas.
The trial judge, Obiora Egwuatu, promptly halted the proceedings and returned to his chambers while the courtroom was calmed, and the four individuals were taken out for medical care.
A total of 76 suspects, including at least 28 minors under the age of 18, face charges that include terrorism, an attempted government overthrow, and alleged mutiny related to the August nationwide protest under Section 97 of the Penal Code.
Excluding the four whose trials were delayed after collapsing, the other defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges of treason, terrorism, treasonable felony, and arson brought against them by the Nigerian police. Those classified as adults were granted bail under strict conditions.
The judge ordered that the adults be remanded in Kuje Correctional Services and the minors in Bostal Homes until their bail requirements are met. The court adjourned proceedings until January 24 for trial continuation.
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