In a recent twist surrounding the EndBadGovernance protests, Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has claimed that minors who reportedly collapsed in court were deliberately staging the incident to garner public sympathy. This assertion has sparked further controversy on both national and international fronts, raising questions about the ongoing treatment of protesters and detainees in Nigeria.
The minors in question were part of a group of protesters arrested in connection with the EndBadGovernance demonstrations held from August 1 to 10. When brought to the Federal High Court in Abuja, four protesters, including two minors, allegedly collapsed, prompting swift medical intervention and additional media coverage.
This episode occurred amid the arraignment of 114 protesters, who were each granted bail at N10 million with two sureties. Reports of the fainting minors quickly circulated, bringing attention to the physical and emotional state of young detainees involved in political protests.
In a statement released on November 1 and signed by Force Spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, IGP Egbetokun suggested that the minors and other protesters staged the collapse in a calculated attempt to shift public sentiment. He described the incident as deliberate and scripted, implying that it was intended to paint law enforcement and judicial proceedings in a negative light.
Today, an unexpected incident in court saw six of the suspects suddenly rush out and faint, drawing media attention in a deliberate and scripted manner to attract negative attention, Egbetokun stated, emphasizing that the Nigeria Police Force remains dedicated to protecting the rights and welfare of all detainees, regardless of the accusations against them.
The protesters face charges related to the destruction of public property and threats to national security. Egbetokun underlined that, under Nigerian law, anyone who has reached the age of criminal responsibility is held accountable for their actions, a stance that applies irrespective of age. This approach, according to the IGP, reinforces the law’s impartiality and ensures that legal consequences are upheld.
Despite the serious charges, the IGP’s statement stressed the police force’s commitment to justice, professionalism, and respect for human rights. The Nigeria Police Force is committed to aligning with best practices, upholding both the rule of law and respect for human dignity, Egbetokun stated, reiterating the force’s dedication to transparency in the legal process.
The statement also reassured the public that medical attention was promptly provided to the minors who collapsed, underscoring the Police Force's priority in safeguarding detainees’ welfare. He encouraged the public to avoid undue bias and trust in the legal process to deliver fair outcomes.
The incident and the IGP’s subsequent comments have added fuel to an already contentious case, drawing attention to the treatment of young people in protest related arrests and detentions. Human rights advocates have raised concerns about the high bail conditions and the physical conditions of protesters in custody. Meanwhile, the police maintain that they are upholding the law while adhering to principles of compassion and human rights.
The EndBadGovernance protests have reignited conversations about governance, justice, and accountability within Nigeria’s legal and law enforcement systems. With the case gaining increasing public interest, all eyes remain on the court proceedings as the Nigeria Police Force strives to navigate a complex landscape of justice, public opinion, and international scrutiny.