For days, a viral video of some ‘hungry’ minors in court has sparked intense debate about civil rights and the treatment of young protesters.
President Bola Tinubu directed the immediate release of all minors arrested for their alleged involvement in August’s #EndBadGovernance protests.
During an emergency briefing at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this announcement to State House correspondents.
Order To Release Minor Protesters
Idris stated: “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.”
In addition, he said: “Secondly, the President has also directed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to immediately attend to the welfare of these minors.
“They should ensure their smooth reunion with their parents or guardians wherever they are in the country.”
Furthermore, Idris noted: “Thirdly, the President has directed that an administrative committee will be set up immediately, to be headed by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs.
“This committee will examine all issues surrounding the arrest, detention, treatment, and eventual release of these young minors.”
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He continued: “Fourthly, the President has also directed that all law enforcement agents involved in the arrest and the legal processes will be investigated.
“If any infractions are found to have been committed by any government official, whether from a law enforcement agency or another appropriate authority, disciplinary action will be taken against him or her.”
Outrage Over Minors Trial
This directive follows public outrage over the trial of at least 76 individuals, including 30 children.
They were arraigned on Friday and faced 10 felony charges, including treason, destruction of property, public disturbance, and mutiny.
The minors involved ranged from 14 to 17 years old.