A Kano State Mobile Court has ordered the remand of 632 protesters for alleged vandalism of public and government properties during the #Endbadgovernance nationwide protest. The defendants, who were charged with various criminal offenses, including conspiracy, theft, and mischief by fire, are set to face trial.
The court, presided over by three senior judicial officers, including Senior Magistrate Ibrahim Mansur-Yola, Senior Magistrate Hadiza Rabiu-Bello, and Chief Magistrate Abba Muttaka-Dandago, was convened to address the scale of the alleged destruction. The defendants are accused of committing the crimes on August 1, during the nationwide protest.
According to the State Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Salisu Tahir, the defendants trespassed and vandalized government and public properties in the state, including breaking into shops and looting goods. The offenses allegedly contravened sections 97, 287, 229, 336, 349, and 247 of the Penal Code.
During the hearing, some of the defendants pleaded guilty to the charges, while others pleaded not guilty. The case has been adjourned until August 19 for further hearing.
Kano State mobile court
In a statement following the court proceedings, Kano State Attorney General, Mr. Haruna Isa-Dederi, explained that the state government had constituted three special courts to handle the case due to the large number of defendants involved. The Ministry of Justice will study the case diary and provide appropriate advice before the next adjourned date.
The constitution of three mobile courts is seen as a proactive measure by the state government to ensure that those responsible for the alleged vandalism are brought to justice. The case has sparked widespread debate and concern about the impact of protests on public property and the need for responsible behavior among protesters.
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