By Abiola Olawale
In response to growing widespread outrage following the arraignment of 76 suspected minors over participation in End Bad Governance Protest, Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has explained that the fainting of six suspects in court before their arraignment was a deliberate act.
Egbetokun accused the six suspects of scripting their fainting to attract negative attention.
On Friday, 76 suspects, who are believed to be mostly minors, were arraigned in connection with the recent #EndBadGovernance protest, which was held from August 1 to August 10, 2024. Six of them collapsed and were rushed out of the courtroom.
Following their arraignment, the court granted each minor bail set at N10 million, sparking widespread outrage.
However, while reacting to the development, Egbetokun revealed that medical assistance was promptly provided forcthe six suspects who fainted. In a statement signed by Force Spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, Egbetokun affirmed that, under Nigerian law, individuals who have reached the age of criminal responsibility are accountable for their actions, regardless of their age.
The statement reads in part: “Today, an unexpected incident in court saw six of the suspects suddenly rush out and faint, drawing media attention in a deliberate and scripted manner to attract negative attention.
“Medical aid was promptly provided to these individuals, demonstrating the Police Force’s commitment to the welfare of those in its custody, irrespective of the allegations they face.
“While committed to upholding justice, the Nigeria Police Force remains sensitive to the rights of all individuals, including young persons. Under Nigerian law, individuals who have reached the age of criminal responsibility are answerable for their actions, regardless of their age.
“This principle aligns with global practices, where accountability is upheld for young individuals who commit serious offences. As seen in other jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, age does not exempt individuals from facing legal consequences. However, each case is approached with empathy and by human rights standards.”
Egbetokun stated that the charges against the suspects included destruction of public property and threats to national security, among others.
The statement continued: “The NPF has recently arraigned 76 individuals in court on charges including terrorism, arson, and treasonable felony. These serious allegations encompass offences such as the destruction of public property and threats to national security. In managing the detention and arraignment of these suspects, the NPF has rigorously adhered to legal provisions to ensure fairness and accountability under the rule of law.
“The suspects were initially presented in court, where they were formally charged, and a remand order was issued by the court. Throughout this process, the Police have worked to balance justice with compassion, ensuring that each suspect’s basic rights and privileges are respected, including access to medical care and other necessary provisions.”
