In a swift response to public outcry, President Bola Tinubu has directed the release of 72 minors detained for their participation in the recent EndBadGovernance protests. The announcement, made by Minister of Information Mohammed Idris, emphasizes that the minors will be released immediately, although legal proceedings for the protests will continue.
The EndBadGovernance protests, which took place in August, centered on Nigeria’s pressing socio-economic issues, including rising living costs, inflation, and the need for more accountable governance. Unfortunately, the demonstrations took a violent turn, resulting in the arrest of 76 individuals, including minors, on charges of treason and inciting a coup. During their arraignment at the Federal High Court in Abuja, four of the minors reportedly collapsed due to exhaustion, highlighting the intensity of their detention experience and sparking widespread concern.
President Tinubu’s directive aims to ensure the immediate release of the detained minors while allowing the legal process for other detainees to continue as necessary. To support the released children, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction will offer welfare assistance, ensuring that the minors are reunited with their families as soon as possible.
The government’s treatment of the minors has drawn criticism from human rights organizations and political figures alike. The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) condemned the arrests, arguing that the detention and arraignment of minors conflicted with their rights and well-being. Politicians such as Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan also called for accountability and emphasized the need for a measured approach when dealing with youth protestors.
The Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, has since requested the minors’ case files, hinting at a possible review of the treasonable felony charges. This move has fueled speculation that the charges could be reconsidered, potentially leading to a more lenient approach to young protestors in future cases.
President Tinubu’s decision to release the minors marks a significant step toward addressing public concerns and demonstrates the government’s willingness to respond to criticism over the treatment of young Nigerians. Many view this as a positive gesture that underscores the importance of protecting children’s rights, even amidst complex socio-political tensions.
With the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs now involved, the released minors are expected to receive support as they reintegrate with their families and communities. However, the continued legal proceedings for the remaining protestors and potential review of charges for those involved indicate that the government is balancing responses to public pressure with its commitment to national security.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with issues of governance and reform, President Tinubu’s response may pave the way for a more thoughtful approach to addressing public dissent, particularly when it involves young voices demanding change.