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In a nation grappling with severe economic hardships, ten protesters from last month's "10 Days of Rage" demonstrations in Nigeria now face serious charges, including treason. The protests, which erupted across major cities in response to worsening economic conditions, turned violent in several locations, resulting in at least seven deaths according to police, although rights groups put the number closer to 23. Nearly 700 people were also arrested during the unrest.
The demonstrations, organized through social media, echoed the cries of a population burdened by soaring inflation and the skyrocketing cost of basic goods, such as food staples like yams. Protesters chanted slogans like "We are hungry" and "End bad governance," expressing their frustration with the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The ten individuals who appeared in court on Monday pleaded not guilty to charges of treason, destruction of public property, and injuring police officers. Prosecutors accused them of collaborating with a British national to destabilize the Nigerian government by calling for a military takeover. The protestors allegedly shouted, "Tinubu must go, it is soldiers we want."
Despite pleas for bail after being held for a month, the court ruled that the accused would remain in custody. Amnesty International has criticized the legal proceedings, calling the trial a sham and demanding investigations into the killings that occurred during the protests.
The economic crisis, considered the worst in a generation, has led to widespread public anger. With inflation rates exceeding 30% and food prices increasing dramatically, the discontent driving the protests shows no signs of abating. Curfews imposed in some areas have only added to the tension, as authorities struggle to maintain control amid accusations of heavy-handed tactics and human rights abuses.
