President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate release of the 72 minors who were arraigned in Abuja on Friday, November 1, 2024, for their alleged participation in the #EndBadGovernance protests.
The move comes after widespread outrage and condemnation from Nigerians, including former presidential candidates, civil society organizations, human rights activists, and regional socio-political groups.
The minors, aged between 12 and 15, were accused of treason, among other charges, and had been detained for over eight weeks since the nationwide protests against hunger and high cost of living.
The arraignment of the minors on Friday sparked outrage, with many expressing disgust at the sight of the gaunt and poorly fed children, some of whom collapsed in court.
The presiding judge, Obiora Egwuatu, granted N10 million bail to the 72 minors, but many Nigerians felt that the government’s actions were unacceptable.
In response to the backlash, the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, announced that his office would review the case and take appropriate action.
President Tinubu’s decision to release the minors is seen as a response to the widespread criticism and condemnation of the government’s actions. The President also directed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to ensure the smooth reunion of the minors with their parents or guardians and to provide for their welfare.
Additionally, a committee will be set up to investigate the circumstances surrounding the arrest, detention, treatment, and release of the minors.
The #EndBadGovernance protests, which took place in August, were a response to the harsh economic conditions and high cost of living in Nigeria.
The protests were peaceful, but the government’s response was deemed heavy-handed, leading to the arrest and detention of the minors.
