Police in several northern states of Nigeria have commenced the prosecution of demonstrators arrested during the recent 10-day #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria nationwide protest.
The protests, which remained largely peaceful in the South, escalated into violence in the North, resulting in significant loss of life and property. Reports indicate that at least 17 individuals were killed on the first day of the protests across Abuja, Kano, Niger, Borno, Kaduna, and Jigawa, with Amnesty International condemning the excessive force used by security operatives, alleging the deaths of at least 21 protesters.
The violence prompted the imposition of curfews in no fewer than five states. The police have detained numerous protesters, including some who were seen waving Russian flags, as the demonstrations turned increasingly chaotic.
Beginning Monday, the authorities are set to charge at least 1,135 individuals arrested during the protests. The police have announced that these individuals will be prosecuted in connection with the violent unrest.