Outrage Over Detention of Minors in Nigeria's
The recent detention and arraignment of 72 minors by the Federal Government, linked to their alleged participation in the #EndBadGovernance protests, has sparked widespread outrage across Nigeria. Sunday Vanguard notes that these protests unfolded over ten days, from August 1 to August 10, 2024, in response to the rising cost of living in the country.
Initially, the protests significantly disrupted socio-economic activities in the South-West on their first day, while maintaining momentum in the North. However, the situation took a concerning turn, leading to the incarceration of those who expressed their grievances through peaceful demonstrations.
On Friday, the minors, aged between 14 and 17, appeared before Justice Obiora Egwuatu at the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court. The charges against them included treason, destruction of property, public disturbance, and mutiny.
Prominent figures have voiced their disapproval of these developments. Among them are Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, the presidential candidate for the New Nigeria Peoples Party in the 2023 elections, and Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State. Organizations such as Child Protection Network Nigeria (CPN), Campaign for Equal Rights and Opportunities for all Nigerians (CERON), and the #EndBadGovernance Movement in Lagos have also expressed concern.
Kwankwaso labeled the arraignment as "absurd," taking to Facebook to convey his anger. He emphasized that the minors’ continued detention violates their rights and urged the federal government to reconsider the charges so that they can return to their families.
He stated, “I am shocked by the arraignment of 67 minors by the Nigeria Police Force at a court in Abuja for their alleged involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protests. These children, who appear malnourished and in need of medical care, have been subjected to a cruel experience when they should be in school. This mass arraignment of minors is highly unusual and undermines the principles of human rights and dignity. As leaders, we must protect the most vulnerable among us—especially children, women, the elderly, and the needy. The government should not be at the forefront of such violations. I am particularly appalled by the harsh conditions set for their release, including a N10 million bail requirement for a teenager and for a civil servant at a Grade 15 level.”
The situation continues to draw attention and criticism as it raises important questions about the rights of minors and the state’s response to civil unrest.
