Abuja, NIGERIA – President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate release of minors who were detained and arraigned for their involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protests, which took place across Nigeria in August. This action follows widespread public outcry after the children’s detention and arraignment for their participation in protests that highlighted issues of governance and hardship in the country.
The directive was announced by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, after a ceremony at the State House where seven newly appointed ministers were sworn in. According to Idris, the President has mandated that all minors involved be released without hindrance, regardless of any ongoing legal processes.
“I recall that I had a short briefing with Mr President early this evening, and he has directed the immediate release of all the minors that have been arrested by the Nigerian police, without prejudice to whatever legal processes,” Idris said.
“There are all minors. The president has directed that all of them be released immediately.”
Additionally, President Tinubu instructed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to take immediate action to ensure the minors’ welfare. This includes coordinating efforts to reunite the children with their families or guardians across Nigeria, with a focus on their wellbeing and rehabilitation.
To further address the circumstances surrounding the detentions, Tinubu ordered the establishment of a committee, led by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, to investigate the arrest, detention conditions, and overall treatment of the minors, with recommendations on ensuring the issue is properly handled.
The minors’ detention sparked outrage after 72 children were brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday, November 1. Many were charged with serious offenses, including treason, for their alleged roles in the protests. Images from the court showed several of the children appearing frail, with some reportedly collapsing due to poor conditions during detention.
Judge Obiora Egwuatu subsequently granted the 72 minors bail at N10 million each, a development that further fueled public criticism over the government’s handling of the situation.
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