President Bola Tinubu has directed the Attorney general of the federation to immediately facilitate the release of all minors detained during the #EndBadGovernance protests in Kano and Kaduna on August 3, 2024.
The announcement was made Monday by the Minister of Information, Idris Muhammad, during a briefing at the State House.
The minister told state house correspondents that The president said, whatever the circumstances, the minors should be released immediately,” without prejudice to the on going case.
He also said that President Tinubu has instructed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to ensure the welfare of the minors and facilitate their smooth reunion with their families.
Additionally, he said Tinubu ordered the establishment of an administrative committee to review the minors’ arrest and treatment.
Muhammad stated that law enforcement agents involved in the detentions would be investigated, with disciplinary action to follow if any infractions are discovered.
On Friday, authorities brought several protesters—many reportedly minors—before a Federal High Court in Abuja.
As proceedings began, four children reportedly collapsed and had to be removed from the courtroom.
The court subsequently granted N10 million bail to 72 defendants, while removing the names of the four ailing children from the charge list. All other defendants pleaded not guilty.
The detentions have sparked debate nationwide, with human rights advocates urging authorities to prioritize the children’s welfare and ensure their rights are fully respected in any legal proceedings.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
