FG Orders Release of Detained Minor Protesters

 

Embarrassed by growing international scrutiny and condemnation, the Federal Government on Monday ordered the release of malnourished minors detained over their alleged involvement in the August #EndBadGovernance protests.

Major news networks like CNN, Al Jazeera, and others have highlighted the plight of these children, underscoring the gravity of the situation and drawing attention to the Tinubu administration’s handling of economic and social challenges.

This backlash has added further strain to President Bola Tinubu’s government, which already faces criticism for navigating one of Nigeria’s toughest economic periods, marked by inflation, currency devaluation, and inadequate policies.

The minors, aged 14 to 17, were detained alongside 46 adults in connection with the protests, which were driven by economic hardship in the country. With soaring prices, unemployment, and food insecurity, even children joined the protests, demanding better living conditions and stability.

The children were charged with serious offenses, including treason, public disturbance, and property destruction, raising concerns globally over their treatment.

Following the order, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, addressed State House correspondents, announcing the government’s decision to release the children without prejudice to any ongoing legal proceedings.

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He said, “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.

“Secondly, the President has also directed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to immediately attend to the welfare of these minors, and to ensure their smooth reunion with their parents or guardians wherever they are in the country.

“Thirdly, the President has directed that an administrative committee will be set up immediately, to be headed by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, to examine all issues surrounding the arrest, detention, treatment, and finally, the release of these young minors.

“Fourthly, the President has also directed that all law enforcement agents involved in the arrest and the legal processes will be investigated, and if any infractions are found to have been committed by any official of Government, whether from a law enforcement agency or another appropriate authority, disciplinary action will be taken against him or her.”