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Nigerian Court Orders Release of Underage Protesters

A federal court has struck out treason charges against scores of minors who were detained during recent nationwide protests against the increasing cost of living in the country and the state of governance. President Bola Tinubu had earlier ordered their release when some protesters slumped and fell during their court appearnce, promtping condemnations from rights group, including Amnesty International.

Under Nigerian law, treason is punishable by a possible death sentence.

"Any form of trial that has a child as a defendant is illegal, unconstitutional and null and void," said Marshal Abubakar, a lawyer for the protesters.

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Protesters marching to Eagle Square in Nigeria.

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