In a show of solidarity, Sowore was in Abuja court today as the Nigerian government begins the trial of protesters arrested during the August #EndBadGovernance protest, a cause he championed
As the Nigerian government moves to avert another looming protest tagged #FearlessInOctober, it has commenced the trial of 10 Nigerians for their alleged participation in the August 1-10 nationwide protests nicknamed #EndBadGovernance.
The protesters, who trooped out to demand good governance and an end to poor economic policies, hardship, and insecurity, were arrested by the police and other security agents at various locations in Abuja, Kaduna, Kano, and Gombe.
The protesters were on September 2, 2024, arraigned before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja on charges bordering on treasonable felony among others.
On September 11, the 10 defendants were granted bail with strict conditions, requiring N10 million each and one surety of the same amount. However, those struggling to meet these conditions were brought to court handcuffed and under tight security by Nigerian Correctional Centre officers.
The defendants are Michael Adaramoye, also known as Lenin, Adeyemi Abayomi, Suleiman Yakubu, Comrade Opaluwa Simon, Angel Innocent, Buhari Lawal, Mosiu Sodiq, Bashir Bello, Nurudeen Khamis and Abduldalam Zubair.
Interestingly, a major protagonist of the protest and a prominent human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore made a gesture of solidarity by attending the court hearing to support the defendants.
The former presidential candidate of African Action Congress was seen shaking hands with the defendants, in a display of unity and support as he entered the courtroom.
The defendants are facing six counts bordering on alleged treason, intent to destabilize Nigeria, conspiracy to commit a felony, and inciting to mutiny, which is said to be an offence punishable under Section 97 of the Penal Code.
