President Bola Tinubu has issued a directive for the immediate release of all minors who were arrested and detained in connection with the #EndBadGovernance protests. This decision aims to address concerns regarding the treatment of young individuals involved in the demonstrations.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a briefing with State House correspondents on Monday. This move reflects the government’s response to public outcry over the detention of minors.
In his statement, Idris highlighted that the President has instructed the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, to take swift action to facilitate the release of these minors. This step underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring justice and protecting the rights of young citizens.
The directive also includes a mandate for the reunification of these minors with their families, no matter where they are located in the country. This effort aims to restore the familial bonds disrupted by their detention.
To further address the situation, a committee has been established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the minors’ arrests, detentions, and subsequent releases. This initiative is intended to ensure accountability and transparency in the actions of law enforcement agencies.
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The committee will also examine the conduct of law enforcement officials involved in these cases. Any individuals found to have acted improperly will be held accountable for their actions, reinforcing the rule of law.
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has also voiced its concerns, urging the Federal Government to halt the treason trials of #EndBadGovernance protesters and to release all minors. Their statement reflects a broader call for justice and humane treatment of those involved in the protests.
ACF characterized the trials of minors as a “show of shame,” emphasizing the need for the government to reconsider its approach to handling these cases. They argue that the legal actions taken against young protesters demonstrate excessive government overreach.
Earlier on Monday, Sheikh Ahmed Umar, the Youth Leader of the Tijaniyya Islamic Movement in Africa, called on President Tinubu to issue an executive order for the immediate release of the detained minors. His plea further illustrates the urgency of addressing this pressing issue.
As the situation unfolds, the government’s actions will be closely monitored by various stakeholders, including civil rights organizations and the public, who are advocating for the protection of minors and their rights within the legal system.
