Nigerian authorities have charged 76 individuals, including 30 minors, with treason and inciting a military coup in connection with violent mass protests that took place in August over the country’s economic crisis, according to court documents released on Friday.
The demonstrations, which erupted in Abuja, Lagos, and other cities, reflected widespread discontent with President Bola Tinubu’s government reforms, which have led to soaring inflation and significant financial hardships for many Nigerians.
President Tinubu has dismissed any possibility of altering his policies, insisting that the reforms are necessary to prevent the country from sinking further into economic turmoil.
Human rights group Amnesty International reported that at least 13 people were killed during clashes between protesters and security forces on the first day of the demonstrations.
Advocacy organizations have noted that the minors have been detained since August after being arrested during protests against insecurity and the deteriorating socio-economic conditions.
The court filings indicate that authorities have been investigating since July. A police spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment from Reuters regarding the detention of the minors.
Lawyers for the minors stated that they have since been released on bail and are expected to stand trial in January.
