In a stirring appeal to the Nigerian government, a prominent legal scholar, Biodun Timothy Olatokunbo Tugbiye, has expressed concerns over the ongoing treason charges against #Endbagovernance demonstrators arrested during recent protests.
Tugbiye, who described the treason charges as a frame-up against the protesters and injustice against humanity claimed to be one of the lecturers who taught the current Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Federation (AGF), Chief Lateef Fagbemi, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), in the Nigerian Law School, Victoria Island, Lagos in the 80s.
The demonstrations, which were initially focused on issues such as hunger and governance, have drawn widespread attention after some protesters were charged with attempting to overthrow the government.
“I followed the demonstrations. Some turned riotous, and some of the demonstrators were arrested,” the scholar stated.
“I learned they are now being charged with treason. I have not seen the charge sheet”, he added.
He noted that a senior government official had publicly suggested that the protesters were attempting to overthrow the government, urging the protesters to await the next election if they wanted a change in leadership.
The scholar further referred to a video in which a government lawyer alleged that foreign interests funded the protests.
However, the legal expert emphasized his belief that the treason charges were a deliberate strategy to suppress future protests adding, “I believe these demonstrators are being tried for treason just to deter other Nigerians from demonstrating.”
Stressing that the protests were driven by real concerns about hunger and poor governance, issues affecting many Nigerians, he asked, “How can a demonstration against bad governance and hunger in the land be considered treason?”
The scholar then made a personal plea to Nigeria’s Attorney General, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, urging him to reconsider the charges.
He recounted his years as a lecturer at the Nigerian Law School, where he taught several prominent figures, including Chief Femi Fani-Kayode and Hon. Babatunde Ogala.
Although he could not recall teaching Chief Fagbemi directly, he expressed admiration for the Attorney General’s legal career and reputation, noting that he seniors him at the bar, the reason the Attorney General should heed his calls.
“I am pleading with you as your senior, I am pleading with you as your teacher, please, if it is true, withdraw these charges. Demonstration is not treason”, he stated.
The legal scholar warned that if the charges are not withdrawn, the protesters could remain in custody for months, possibly a year, serving as an example to others who might consider similar demonstrations.
He urged Chief Fagbemi to act with compassion and uphold the ethical standards of the legal profession, cautioning against succumbing to political pressure.
“Show mercy that you are a member of the honourable society. Don’t go the way of politicians. You are a lawyer indeed. I am pleading with you.”
As tensions simmer, the scholar also expressed concern about potential future protests.
“Some Nigerians have suggested staging new demonstrations on October 1st, but he discouraged such actions in light of the current legal climate.
The situation continues to develop as civil society groups, legal professionals, and government officials debate the appropriateness of the treason charges and the broader implications for freedom of expression in Nigeria.
