Nigeria’s Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, has explained the legal rationale behind treason charges initially filed against several minors involved in recent protests.
Despite facing backlash, Fagbemi clarified that Nigeria’s laws do not prevent minors from being tried in court, even on serious charges such as treason. However, President Bola Tinubu chose to dismiss the cases, showing compassion for the young individuals.
Following the opening of a new office for The Law Corridor, an Abuja-based law firm, Fagbemi addressed the legalities surrounding the cases.
He remarked, “No law in this country says a minor cannot be tried, and I have also heard suggestions that they should go to a family court.
“The study of the law and the constitution leaves you no other conclusion than that the federal high court has jurisdiction in matters bordering on treason and related issues.
“So, whatever the situation, the president has closed the chapter by his decision to have these young men released.
“The president was very compassionate; he is a father and a grandfather. If you look at the facts in the possession of the security agency, you would marvel.
“But the president said, despite all this, ‘I have children and grandchildren,’ and that motivated his passion to release them and also enable them in some ways.
“So the credit goes to him (the President) for showing compassionate consideration in releasing the young chaps,” the AGF added.
The Federal High Court in Abuja had recently dismissed two treason cases linked to protests held nationwide from August 1 to August 10. These cases involved 119 individuals in total, with minors making up a portion of the defendants.
The AGF, on President Tinubu’s instructions, withdrew these charges, effectively closing the cases. Court records indicated that one of the charges listed 32 minors among the accused, while another involved five minors.
Some of these minors, aged between 14 and 17, reportedly fainted in court when the charges were read.
During the event, the AGF also encouraged Nigerian legal professionals to work collaboratively, highlighting that partnerships could help strengthen their skills, provide mentorship, and better manage legal challenges.
“When seasoned practitioners partner with younger lawyers, the next generation of practitioners learns from their experiences.
“In return, younger lawyers bring fresh perspectives in adaptability, driving the profession to knee innovations.
“Another good aspect of the partnership is sustainability and resilience to create more room for accountability and to support networks where challenges can be faced collectively to meet clients’ expectations.
“Collaboration enhances good relationships, which is a cornerstone of the law profession, as clients seek not expertise but a team that understands their needs to receive comprehensive services,” the AGF added.
