The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has defended the treason charges brought against several minors who participated in the recent EndBadGovernance protests held across the country.

The AGF, who stated that no law in the country prohibits the prosecution of minors, said President Bola Tinubu’s decision to halt further proceedings against the teenagers was purely on compassionate grounds.

Fagbemi, SAN, made his remarks following the commissioning of a new office complex built by the Abuja-based law firm, The Law Corridor, on Thursday.

According to him, “No law in this country says a minor cannot be tried, and I have also heard suggestions that they should go to a family court.

“A study of the law and the constitution leaves no other conclusion than that the Federal High Court has jurisdiction in matters concerning treason and related issues.

“So, whatever the situation, the president has closed the chapter with his decision to have these young men released.

“The president was very compassionate; he is a father and a grandfather. If you examine the facts held by the security agency, you would be astonished.

“But the president said, despite everything, ‘I have children and grandchildren,’ and that motivated his decision to release them and also offer them support in some way.

“So the credit goes to him (the President) for showing compassionate consideration in releasing the young men,” the AGF added.

It will be recalled that the Federal High Court in Abuja last Tuesday struck out two separate treason charges brought against 119 persons who were arrested and detained for participating in the nationwide protests held between August 1 and August 10.

The cases were dismissed after the AGF, acting on President Tinubu’s directive, withdrew the charges initially filed by the Nigeria Police Force.

In the first 10-count charge, marked FHC/CR/503/2024, 32 minors were named as defendants. In the second charge, marked FHC/CR/527/2024, which included four counts, five minors were listed as defendants.

Four of the accused minors, aged between 14 and 17, reportedly collapsed in court before the charges could be read to them.

Meanwhile, the AGF has encouraged legal practitioners in the country to embrace partnerships in the profession, noting that it would not only enhance their capacity but also support risk management.

“When seasoned practitioners partner with younger lawyers, the next generation of practitioners learns from their experiences.

“In return, younger lawyers bring fresh perspectives and adaptability, driving innovation in the profession.

“Another advantage of partnership is sustainability and resilience, creating more accountability and a support network where challenges can be collectively addressed to meet clients’ expectations.

“Collaboration fosters good relationships, which is a cornerstone of the legal profession, as clients seek not only expertise but also a team that understands their needs and provides comprehensive services,” the AGF added.

The Law Corridor, which has Mr. Pelumi Olajengbesi as its managing partner, also includes Mr. Henry Kelechukwu Eni-Otu as the lead partner and Ganiyu Ajibola Bello as the Deputy Managing Partner.

Dignitaries present at the event included the Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.