Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to ten #EndBadGovernance protesters who were detained on charges including treason.
Each of the defendants was granted bail at ₦10 million, with a requirement for one surety in the same amount.
In his ruling, Justice Nwite emphasized the presumption of innocence, noting that individuals charged with a criminal offense are considered innocent until proven guilty.
He considered the defense counsel’s arguments, particularly those from Abubakar Marshall, representing some of the defendants.
Despite the gravity of the charges, the judge granted bail to all ten defendants, stating: “I hereby grant the defendants bail notwithstanding the crime.
” The defendants must secure sureties who are property owners residing in Abuja, and both defendants and sureties must submit their international passports and other documents to the court.
Justice Nwite dismissed objections from the Inspector General of Police and restricted the defendants from participating in any public demonstrations during their trial.
The defendants will remain in custody until they meet bail conditions, with their trial set to begin on September 27.
The protesters are facing charges under sections 96, 410, and 413 of the Penal Code, with accusations including inciting a military takeover, vandalism, and attacks on police officers.
The accused are Michael Tobiloba Adaramoye, Adeyemi Abiodun Abayomi, Suleiman Yakubu, Opaluwa Eleojo Simon, Angel Love Innocent, Buhari Lawal, Mosiu Sadiq, Bashir Bello Nurudeen Khamis, and Abduldalam Zubair.