Nineteen individuals, including three minors, have been arraigned in Maiduguri, Borno State, on charges related to their alleged involvement in August’s EndBadGovernance protests.
The suspects, aged between 14 and 17, appeared before Justice Aisha Mohammed Ali at State High Court 10. They face accusations of treason, defamation of Governor Babagana Zulum, and inciting citizens against the state. Prosecutors claim the minors were part of a social media group that discussed taking up arms.
Eleven of the defendants are also charged with raising a Russian flag and chanting anti-government slogans.
All defendants pleaded not guilty. Defense counsel, Barrister Yakubu Alhaji Adamu, called for a speedy trial, citing the prolonged detention of many of the accused.
The judge adjourned the case to November 18th and ordered that the minors be transferred to a juvenile home. Adult defendants will remain in prison.
