In a recent statement, lawyer Olajengbesi has urged the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) to drop all charges against individuals arrested during the EndBadGovernance protests. He argues that criminalizing peaceful dissent violates legal protections and damages Nigeria’s reputation internationally.
Olajengbesi condemned the government’s actions as counterproductive and detrimental to democratic values and freedom of expression. He emphasized the importance of upholding citizens' rights to peaceful assembly, stating that the criminalization of lawful dissent undermines the democratic fabric of society.
Drawing on historical examples, Olajengbesi highlighted that governments employing heavy-handed tactics against peaceful protesters often lose legitimacy both domestically and globally. He expressed confidence in the AGF, Fagbemi, to advocate for justice and the rule of law, urging him to realign the government's approach towards a more democratic and just direction.
In his appeal, Olajengbesi called for the immediate rescinding of all charges against the arrested protesters and their prompt release. He stressed the need to uphold the rule of law and protect the constitutionally guaranteed rights of those who seek to express their dissent peacefully.