The Amnesty International has revealed that over 1,000 individuals involved in the recent #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests are currently detained across Nigeria.
Sunday Telegraph recalls that the hunger protests took place between August 1 and 10, were marred by incidents of violence, looting, and vandalism in various states.
Speaking on the development on its verified X handle on Sunday, the Amnesty International said the Nigerian authorities have intensified their crackdown on the demonstrators, with more than 100 protesters arraigned in court.
The organization condemned the actions of the authorities, describing the trials as unfair and based on questionable charges.
The post reads, “The Nigerian authorities are escalating their crackdown on peaceful protesters against hunger and corruption.
“Over 1,000 people have been remanded nationwide. Today, 441 individuals were arraigned in Kano in what appears to be an unfair trial based on trumped-up charges.”
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had previously announced arrests related to the protests, including those of alleged sponsors of the rioters.
The demonstrations saw calls for significant changes in government, with some protesters hoisting foreign flags and advocating for reforms in states such as Kano, Kaduna, and Zamfara.
Amnesty International has called for the immediate and unconditional release of all individuals detained for their participation in the protests, emphasizing that the Nigerian government is obligated to uphold the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
