After 4 years in custody six #ENDSARS protesters regain freedom

A Lagos State Magistrate Court in Ogba has discharged six men who were arrested during the 2020 #EndSARS protests and have spent nearly four years in prison.

The men, identified as Daniel Joyinbo, Adigun Sodiq, Kehinde Shola, Salaudeen Kamilu, Sodiq Usseni, and Azeez Isiaka, were released by Magistrate Bolanle Osunsanmi on Thursday after they pleaded guilty to a single amended charge from the Lagos State Government.

The charge, dated August 22, 2024, accused them of behaving in a way likely to breach the peace, which falls under Section 168(d) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

According to Director of Public Prosecutions Dr. Babajide Martins, the alleged offense occurred on November 23, 2020, around noon in Ebute Metta, Lagos. Martins explained that their actions could have disturbed public order, which is punishable under state law.

Under Section 168(d) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015, the penalty for conduct likely to cause a breach of peace includes either three months’ imprisonment or a fine of N15,000, or both, depending on the case’s circumstances.

After the defendants pleaded guilty, Magistrate Osunsanmi confirmed they understood the consequences and the court’s obligation to impose the maximum sentence. The defendants accepted the plea bargain.

While the prosecution recommended sentencing according to the plea agreement, defense counsel T.D. Ojeshina requested leniency, noting that the men are first-time offenders who have already spent nearly four years in custody and some are primary family providers.

Magistrate Osunsanmi acknowledged the time already served and decided to discharge the defendants, noting that they had already exceeded the required punishment period. Before their release, she issued a stern warning, urging them to abide by the law in the future.