In response to widespread outrage over the arrest and arraignment of minors involved in the #EndBadGovernance protests in August, President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate release of all detained minors.
Earlier, The New Daily reported that a minor, part of the group of 76 individuals arraigned by the Nigerian Police, collapsed in front of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
This incident sparked significant controversy and drew criticism from opposition parties and concerned citizens regarding the Mr Tinubu administration’s handling of the situation.
However, on Monday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris announced that the President issued the release of the minors.
The Minister said this while briefing the State House correspondents after the sworn-in of the new seven Ministers.
He confirmed that the President’s directive for the minors’ release would occur regardless of ongoing legal proceedings.
Furthermore, President Tinubu instructed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to prioritize the welfare of the minors and facilitate their reunion with their parents or guardians across the country.
In addition, Mr Tinubu mandated the establishment of a committee led by the humanitarian affairs ministry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the minors’ arrest, detention, treatment, and eventual release.
The minors, some of whom appeared gaunt and malnourished, faced accusations of treason among other charges and were arrested in various states, including Kaduna, Abuja, Gombe, Jos, Katsina, and Kano.
The presiding judge, Obiora Egwuatu, granted bail of N10 million to the 72 minors who were arraigned.
The public reacted with outrage when it was revealed that these minors had been detained for over eight weeks following the nationwide protests against hunger and the rising cost of living.
Prominent Nigerians, including former presidential candidates, civil society organizations, human rights activists, and regional socio-political groups expressed their anger over the government’s actions.
In the face of escalating public condemnation, Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) Lateef Fagbemi issued a statement indicating that his office would review the matter to make an informed decision.
He promptly directed the police to transfer the case file to his office and the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF).
