Nigeria Vice President Shettima Welcomes #EndBadGovernance Minors at the Presidential Villa

The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed treason charges against 114 #EndBadGovernance protesters, including minors, who were released following public outrage. Vice President Kashim Shettima received the freed protesters at the Presidential Villa, alongside state governors and key government officials, signaling a government response to their demands.

114 #EndBadGovernance protesters, including minors, arrived at the Presidential Villa in Abuja following their release from detention. The protesters had been discharged by the Federal High Court after the court dismissed treason charges against them.

The trial judge, Obiora Egwatu, ruled in favor of the withdrawal of the case, which was initiated by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation (DPPF), M.D. Abubakar, in response to significant public outcry regarding the treatment of the protesters, particularly the 52 minors involved.

In his announcement, Abubakar stated that he was taking over the case from the police and exercising the powers granted to the Attorney-General under Section 174 of the Nigerian Constitution. The defense lawyers present did not contest the application for withdrawal.

President Bola Tinubu had ordered the release of the protesters amid widespread criticism, and Vice President Kashim Shettima was set to receive them at the Villa. Upon arrival, governors from their respective states, including Uba Sani of Kaduna and Abba Yusuf of Kano, were also in attendance.

Key government officials, such as the Minister of Education and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, joined the reception, highlighting the government's acknowledgment of the protesters' demands and the need for dialogue moving forward. More updates are expected as the situation develops.