One hundred and fourteen #EndBadGovernance protesters, recently acquitted by the Federal High Court in Abuja, have arrived at the Presidential Villa for an official handing over reception.
The group, comprising both minors and adults, had been detained and arraigned by the Nigeria Police Force before the court’s decision to release them.
Grassroots Parrot reports that Justice Obiora Egwuatu ordered the release of the protesters following a request for case dismissal by Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN.
READ ALSO: FG Drops Treason Charges Against Minors Involved In #EndBadGovernance Protest
Vice President Kashim Shettima, standing in for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will formally receive the protesters before they are handed over to their respective state governors—Uba Sani of Kaduna and Abba Yusuf of Kano.
The reception, held in the State House Auditorium in Abuja, is attended by several prominent government officials.
Ministers present include Tunji Alausa (Education), Nentawe Yilwatda (Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction), Balarabe Lawal (Environment), and Tanko Sununu (Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction). Abdullahi Yakasai, Senior Special Assistant on Community Engagement for the Northwest, is also in attendance.
READ ALSO: BREAKING: Tinubu Orders Immediate Release Of Arrested Minors Over Protests
Other dignitaries include Deputy Senate President Jubrin Barau and Abubakar Bichi, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriation.
The government’s decision to dismiss the charges against the protesters comes amid calls for justice reform and an examination of the circumstances surrounding the detentions.
More updates on the handover proceedings to follow.