NIGERIA: EndBadGovernanceProtest: Suspects Fainting In Court Is Deliberate And Scripted – Nigerian Police

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

Following a widespread backlash from Nigerians regarding a viral video showing young suspects arrested during the #EndBadGovernance protests appearing malnourished with some fainting, the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has said that the fainting was scripted, deliberate and for media attention.

In a statement issued on the official Facebook page of the Nigeria Police Force, on Saturday, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, described the incident involving six suspects fainting in court as a “deliberate and scripted” attempt to draw public attention. 

The suspects, part of a group of 76 individuals facing charges of terrorism, arson, and treasonable felony, were presented in court where these incidents reportedly occurred.

The Nigeria Police explained that the suspects are accused of serious offences, including the destruction of public property and activities threatening national security. 

Since their detention and subsequent arraignment, the NPF emphasised its adherence to legal protocols to uphold the rule of law, ensuring that the suspects’ rights are respected, including provisions for medical care.

The police said despite the fainting incident in court, it provided prompt medical aid to the individuals, affirming their commitment to compassion and the welfare of all individuals in custody. 

The Police further clarified that while maintaining fairness and accountability, they remain sensitive to the rights of all detainees, including young suspects, and stressed that age does not absolve individuals from legal responsibility for serious offences under Nigerian law.