Collapse of suspects in court scripted for media attention-Police

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has alleged the collapse of six suspects arraigned with 70 other individuals on charges including terrorism, arson, and treasonable felony was deliberate and scripted to draw negative media attention. It however said medical aid was promptly provided to them, demonstrating the Police Force’s commitment to the welfare of those in its custody, irrespective of the allegations they face. This was contained in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Friday, November 1. The statement reads: “The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has recently arraigned 76 individuals in court on charges including terrorism, arson, and treasonable felony. These serious allegations encompass offenses such as the destruction of public property and threats to national security. In managing the detention and arraignment of these suspects, the NPF has rigorously adhered to legal provisions to ensure fairness and accountability under the rule of law.” The suspects were initially presented in court, where they were formally charged, and a remand order was issued by the court. Throughout this process, the Police have worked to balance justice with compassion, ensuring that each suspect’s basic rights and privileges are respected, including access to medical care and other necessary provisions. “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 draw negative attention. Medical aid was promptly provided to these individuals, demonstrating the Police Force’s commitment to the welfare of those in its custody, irrespective of the allegations they face. “While committed to upholding justice, the Nigeria Police Force remains sensitive to the rights of all individuals, including young persons. Under Nigerian law, individuals who have reached the age of criminal responsibility are answerable for their actions, regardless of their age. “This principle aligns with global practices, where accountability is upheld for young individuals who commit serious offenses. As seen in other jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, age does not exempt individuals from facing legal consequences. However, each case is approached with empathy and in accordance with human rights standards.” On Friday, 76 suspects, primarily minors showing signs of malnutrition, were arraigned related to the #EndBadGovernance protest. Six of them collapsed and were quickly taken out of the courtroom. After their arraignment, the court granted bail to each minor at N10 million.

Sokoto Offers Food Relief at 55% Discount Amidst Economic Hardship

Sokoto State has launched a new relief initiative aimed at providing residents with food and essential items at a 55% discount, as announced by Governor Ahmed Aliyu.  This programme, introduced on Monday, is a response to the economic hardship intensified by the recent subsidy removal and global financial downturns. Governor Aliyu highlighted the inclusive nature of the initiative, ensuring that all residents, regardless of political affiliation or social status, have access to the discounted goods.  He emphasized the government’s dedication to distributing these items across all 244 wards in the state, making them accessible to families who need them the most. Additionally, the Sokoto government has taken other measures to ease the economic burden on residents. Mass transit services have been subsidized to reduce transportation costs and ensure that people can move around the state affordably.  The governor affirmed that these palliatives are part of a broader strategy to support the population during this challenging period. Governor Aliyu also appealed to affluent community members and corporate organizations to support the program by providing food and essentials to the less privileged in their localities.  This collaborative approach, he believes, would amplify the impact of the state’s efforts and create a wider safety net for those most in need. Chiso Dattijo, who leads the committee overseeing this initiative, expressed support for the governor’s actions, commending the approach as a proactive solution for the economic challenges faced by Sokoto residents. ReplyForwardAdd reaction

EndBadGovernance: FG Releases six Polish students

A group of Polish students and their teacher arrested in Nigeria during protests against government policies and soaring living costs have been released, Poland’s foreign minister said on Wednesday.