TAKE IT BACK CONDEMNS STRINGENT BAIL CONDITIONS IMPOSED ON PROTESTERS AND DEMANDS IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF ALL DETAINEES

PRESS STATEMENT BY TAKE IT BACK MOVEMENT

Abuja, September 11, 2024

TAKE IT BACK CONDEMNS STRINGENT BAIL CONDITIONS IMPOSED ON PROTESTERS AND DEMANDS IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF ALL DETAINEES

Today, the Federal High Court in Abuja granted bail to 10 #EndBadGovernance protesters charged with treason. While we acknowledge the decision to grant bail, the Take It Back Movement condemns in the strongest terms the excessively stringent conditions attached to their release. A bail sum of N10 million and the requirement of sureties with properties worth that amount in Abuja are punitive and designed to further oppress peaceful citizens exercising their fundamental rights.

We were present at the court to observe the proceedings, and we categorically state that the prosecution has failed to present any credible evidence to support the charges of treason. These protesters were advocating for good governance, transparency, and accountability—none of which constitute a crime. Protest is not treason; it is a constitutional right.

Furthermore, we call for the immediate release of the remaining 69 protesters who remain detained on the orders of Justice Nwite without formal charges. It is unconscionable that citizens are being held in custody without any legal basis. The continued detention of these individuals is a clear violation of their rights and an abuse of judicial authority.

The Take It Back Movement demands that all charges against the protesters be dropped and that the Nigerian government immediately cease its crackdown on lawful demonstrations. Our nation cannot progress when citizens are criminalized for speaking out against bad governance.

SIGNED:

Sanyaolu Juwon
National Coordinator
Take It Back Movement

Stephen Olabiyi
Public Relations Officer

September 11, 2024

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *