President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate release of all minors detained in connection with the #EndBadGovernance protests. This decision, aimed at addressing growing public outcry, was announced on Monday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a briefing at the State House. Idris was joined by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, and Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Public Communications and Orientation.
Idris conveyed that President Tinubu has instructed the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, to begin procedures for the minors’ release without delay. “The President has ordered that all minors be released and reunited with their families, regardless of their location in the country. A dedicated committee has been established to review the circumstances surrounding their arrest, detention, and eventual release. Additionally, all law enforcement agents involved in the case will be investigated, and anyone found culpable will face disciplinary actions,” he said.
This announcement follows appeals from various groups, including the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), which previously urged the Federal Government to abandon the treason charges brought against the minors. The ACF described the ongoing trial as a “show of shame,” criticizing the government for excessive and unnecessary severity. In a statement signed by Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba, National Publicity Secretary, the ACF condemned the treatment of minors as an extreme display of official high-handedness.
Also, earlier on Monday, Sheikh Ahmed Umar, Youth Leader of the Tijaniyya Islamic Movement in Africa, joined the call for the children’s release, urging President Tinubu to issue an executive order as a matter of urgency. Expressing frustration over the 90-day detention period, Sheikh Umar remarked, “It’s alarming to see a child as young as ten, who may barely understand the charges against them, being tried for offenses meant for mature adults. These children deserve immediate release and compensation.”
Speaking at the Northern Youth Summit in Kaduna, organized by the National Youth Alliance, Sheikh Umar further emphasized the importance of youth involvement in governance as Nigeria grapples with issues like security and unemployment. He encouraged Nigerian youth to take on active roles, asserting that with their participation, the nation could more effectively address its challenges.
