SNWR Demands Immediate End to Treason Trial of #11AbujaActivists, Calls Charges a “Political Witch-Hunt”

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The Solidarity Network for Workers’ Rights (SNWR) has issued a scathing condemnation of the ongoing treason trial against the #11AbujaActivists, demanding an immediate halt to the proceedings and the dropping of all charges.

In a strongly worded press statement signed by Lateef Adams, the SNWR described the trial as a “farce” and a “disgraceful assault on democratic rights.” The activists are among those who led and participated in the August 1st, 2024 #EndBadGovernance protest in Abuja, which was staged in response to widespread economic hardship and government policies deemed anti-poor by various civil society groups.

The SNWR accused the Nigerian state of orchestrating the trial as a tool to criminalize dissent and suppress organized resistance to what it called “pro-rich policies championed by the Tinubu regime.” The statement noted that the trial, set to continue on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, follows three previous adjournments by Justice Emeka Nwite, whom SNWR alleges is acting under political influence.

“Let it be stated without ambiguity: this treason trial is a farce. It is a disgraceful assault on democratic rights and a clear attempt to crush organized resistance against anti-people, pro-rich policies,” the statement reads.

The group highlighted the conditions that led to the August 1st protest, pointing to the government’s removal of fuel subsidy, rising cost of living, unaffordable transportation, student loan traps, tuition increases, youth unemployment, and growing numbers of out-of-school children. According to SNWR, these realities fueled the protest, which they said was “rooted in hunger, hopelessness, and mass frustration,” rather than any treasonable intent.

“The removal of fuel subsidy was not just an economic decision; it was a death sentence for workers, students, and poor farmers,” the SNWR asserted, adding that the government’s response to the protests included “tear gas, live bullets, and mass arrests,” with children among those detained.

The SNWR characterized the trial as a “political witch-hunt” aimed at silencing a new wave of young resistance leaders. “These are not criminals. These are patriots. Fighters. Workers. Students. Ordinary people who have refused to fold their arms while the future is mortgaged by looters in Agbada,” the statement emphasized.

In a rallying call for solidarity, the SNWR urged trade unions, student bodies, progressive organizations, and all oppressed groups to demand the immediate end to the trial and the release of the activists.

“Protest is not a crime! Let history record where we all stood. An injury to one is an injury to all,” the statement concluded.

The trial continues amidst growing national and international attention, with human rights observers warning that its outcome could set a dangerous precedent for civic freedoms and democratic engagement in Nigeria.

StreetReporters.ng

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