Nigeria charges protesters with treason, military mutiny

In the wake of widespread protests last month against Nigeria's growing cost of living crisis, the government has charged 10 individuals with treason and conspiring to incite the military to mutiny. These charges follow nationwide demonstrations that saw thousands take to the streets, met with a deadly response from security forces. 

Amnesty International reported that at least 13 protesters were killed during the crackdown, although security officials deny the use of lethal force.

The 10 accused appeared in Abuja's Federal High Court on Monday, pleading not guilty to the charges. If convicted, they face the death penalty, according to human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong. 

The state prosecutors argued that the protesters conspired to destabilize Nigeria, accusing them of plotting treason and several other offenses under the country's penal code, including inciting the military, damaging government property, and disturbing public order.

Lawyers for the protesters sought their release on bail, but the state opposed the request. A ruling on the bail application is expected on September 11, when the trial is set to begin.

Amnesty International has condemned the charges, urging the Nigerian government to unconditionally release all those arrested during the protests. 

The organization described the charges as "trumped-up" and designed to unlawfully detain the protesters. "These are blatantly trumped-up charges that must be immediately withdrawn," said Isa Sanusi, Amnesty International Nigeria's director.

The protests were largely a response to President Bola Tinubu's economic reforms, which have worsened the country’s economic conditions since he took office in May 2023. 

Tinubu's policies, which include devaluing the currency and raising the cost of petrol and electricity, have contributed to soaring inflation, fueling public discontent and driving the recent wave of protests.

This trial is set to take place against the backdrop of growing tension in Nigeria as citizens grapple with worsening economic conditions and concerns over the government's heavy-handed response to dissent.