Nigerian Judge Grants Bail Amid High-Stakes Treason Case

A Nigerian judge has granted bail to 10 people charged with treason and inciting military mutiny after protests against a cost of living crisis. The protests resulted in a deadly crackdown by security forces. The accused, who pleaded not guilty, have been granted bail of 10 million naira each.

A Nigerian judge on Wednesday granted bail to 10 individuals charged with treason and inciting military mutiny. The charges stem from last month's nationwide protests against soaring inflation and a cost of living crisis.

Judge Emeka Nwite exercised his discretion to grant bail to the nine men and one woman, each at a sum of 10 million naira. The defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The protests, which lasted for 10 days, saw thousands taking to the streets and were met with a violent crackdown by security forces, resulting in at least 13 casualties according to Amnesty International, although security forces deny using lethal force. If convicted, the accused could face the death penalty. The trial has been adjourned to September 27.

(With inputs from agencies.)