The Kano AG acting through the Director of Public Prosecution ordered the withdrawal of criminal charges against the protesters on Monday, following a petition by Citizens’ Gavel, a civic tech organisation.
The Kano State Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Haruna Dederi, has ordered the discontinuation of all criminal charges filed against #EndBadGovernance protesters in the state.
The Kano AG acting through the Director of Public Prosecution ordered the withdrawal of criminal charges against the protesters on Monday, following a petition by Citizens’ Gavel, a civic tech organisation.
The #EndBadGovernance protest held nationwide August 1 to 10 where Nigerians peacefully expressed their grievances against the government’s poor policies and resulting hardship, but the police arrested many of the demonstrators and filed charges against them on behalf of the government.
According to a release on Monday evening sent to SaharaReporters, Citizens Gavel said the state government gave the directive for the discontinuation of trial.
“On the 27th of January, 2025, the 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.
“The decision follows a petition submitted by Citizens’ Gavel on November 5, 2024, urging the AG to exercise his constitutional authority under Section 211(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended),” the release said.
“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.
“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 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,” the organisation said.
Signed by Rachael Adio, Citizens’ Gavel communications associate, the organisation backed the Kano State government for upholding the rule of law and respecting the constitutional freedom 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,” it said.
