•Calls for Investigation of Arrest Circumstances
In a significant development, President Bola Tinubu on Monday ordered the immediate release of all minors detained over their involvement in the August #EndBadGovernance protests.
This directive comes amid rising concerns and public outrage over the detention and trial of young protesters, including children, by Nigerian authorities.
The announcement was made by Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, during an emergency briefing at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja.
Idris relayed the President’s directive to release all minors currently held by the Nigeria Police, regardless of the ongoing legal proceedings against them.
“The President has ordered the immediate release of all the minors who have been arrested by the Nigeria Police, without prejudice to whatever legal processes they are undergoing.
He has directed that they be released immediately,” Idris said.
In addition to their release, President Tinubu has mandated that the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction address the welfare needs of the affected children.
Idris explained that the Ministry is to ensure a smooth and safe reunion between the minors and their parents or guardians, regardless of where they are in the country.
To address concerns over the conditions of the minors’ arrest and detention, Tinubu has also called for the establishment of an administrative committee.
This committee, to be headed by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, will investigate all circumstances of the arrest, treatment, and subsequent release of these children.
Idris further stated, “The President has also directed that all law enforcement agents involved in the arrest and the legal processes will be investigated.
“If any infractions are found to have been committed by any official of the government, whether from a law enforcement agency or other appropriate authority, disciplinary action will be taken against him or her.”
This intervention follows the recent arraignment of at least 76 individuals, including 30 minors aged between 14 and 17.
The children, alongside other protesters, were charged with multiple felony counts, including treason, destruction of property, public disturbance, and mutiny.
The prosecution of the young protesters stirred controversy, with critics condemning what they described as excessive force used against children.
President Tinubu’s directive is being considered a response to the public’s call for a more compassionate and transparent handling of minors involved in protests.
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