The Attorney General of Kano State, Haruna Dederi, has ordered the withdrawal of all criminal charges against #EndBadGovernance protesters in the state.

This decision follows a petition submitted by Citizens’ Gavel on November 5, 2024, urging the attorney general to exercise his constitutional authority under Section 211(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

In a statement released yesterday, Citizens’ Gavel, a civic-tech non-governmental organization, described the move as a landmark victory for justice and civil liberties in Nigeria. The group’s communications associate, Rachael Adio, praised the attorney general for upholding the rule of law and respecting Nigerians’ constitutional freedoms. She reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to advocating for justice, protecting civil liberties, and ensuring accountability within the justice system.

“On January 27, 2025, the Honourable Attorney General of Kano State, acting through the Director of Public Prosecution, officially ordered the discontinuance and withdrawal of all criminal charges against #EndBadGovernance protesters in Kano,” the statement read.

The petition had called for the dismissal of charges against peaceful protesters arrested in Kano during nationwide demonstrations held from August 1 to August 10, 2024. These individuals had faced allegations including conspiracy to commit treason, unlawful assembly, and public disturbance.

Citizens’ Gavel also revealed that fundamental human rights enforcement applications were filed in court, with the organization providing free legal support and representation to the affected protesters.

“After five months, the withdrawal of these charges marks a significant victory for justice, reaffirming citizens’ rights to peacefully express their grievances without fear of persecution,” the statement added.

The move is seen as a crucial step in strengthening democratic freedoms and ensuring that peaceful dissent remains protected under the law in Nigeria.