A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted the police permission to remand 124 protesters arrested during the recent #EndBadGovernance protests for 60 days pending the conclusion of investigations.
Justice Emeka Nwite made the ruling on separate ex-parte motions filed by the police, citing the need for further investigation and legal advice from the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF).
The protesters, aged between 14 and 34, were accused of terrorism, treason, and treasonable felonies, including arson and terrorism.
The police alleged that they were part of a planned violent uprising against the government, orchestrated by terrorist groups within and outside Nigeria.
The court also ordered that minors among the suspects be remanded in the Borstal Home of the correctional centre pending the conclusion of the investigation.
The police had filed two separate motions, one for 75 protesters and another for 49, alleging that they engaged in terrorism financing, conspiracy, and treasonable felony.
The protesters were arrested in Abuja and various states, with some found carrying Russian flags and other incriminating exhibits. Investigations have commenced, with some suspects making voluntary statements admitting to the crime.
The police argued that more time was needed to complete the investigation, apprehend sponsors, and obtain legal advice from the AGF.
The case has been adjourned until October 23 for mention.