Kano State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Haruna Isa Dederi, has ordered the withdrawal of all criminal charges against #EndBadGovernance protesters in Kano State.
Acting through the Director of Public Prosecution, the decision follows a petition submitted by a Civil Society Organisation, Citizens’ Gavel on November 5, 2024, urging the AGF to exercise his constitutional authority under Section 211(1)(c) of 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Communications Associate, Citizens’ Gavel, Rachael Adio, disclosed in a statement on Tuesday, Jan. 28, that the AGF officially withdrew the case on Monday, January 27.
The petition had 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.
The organisation lamented that demonstrators faced baseless allegations, including conspiracy to commit treason, unlawful assembly, and public disturbance.
It said 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. Citizens’ Gavel commends the Honourable Attorney General of Kano State for upholding the rule of law and respecting the constitutional freedoms 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 rights of the people to dissent and peaceful protest is safeguarded is possible.”
