In a decisive response to public outrage over the arrest of minors involved in the #EndBadGovernance protests in August, President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate release of all detainees. This announcement was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a press briefing at the State House on Monday, November 4, 2024.
“The President has directed that the minors be released without prejudice to any ongoing legal processes,” Idris stated, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to addressing the concerns raised by the protests.
Additionally, President Tinubu has tasked the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to ensure the welfare of the released minors and facilitate their reunification with their parents or guardians across the country.
Idris further revealed that a committee will be established, led by the humanitarian affairs ministry, to investigate the circumstances surrounding the minors’ arrest, detention, treatment, and subsequent release.
The situation escalated on November 1, 2024, when 72 minors were brought before a Federal High Court in Abuja, facing serious charges including treason. The minors were arrested in various locations including Kaduna, Abuja, Gombe, Jos, Katsina, and Kano. Eyewitnesses reported that some of the children appeared gaunt and malnourished, with some collapsing in court.
Judge Obiora Egwuatu granted bail of N10 million to the minors during the proceedings. This incident sparked outrage across Nigeria, with many—including former presidential candidates, civil society organizations, and human rights activists—condemning the government’s actions.
In light of the public backlash, the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, issued a statement indicating that his office would review the matter to make an informed decision. He has directed the police to transfer the case file to his office for further evaluation by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation.
The swift actions taken by President Tinubu and his administration reflect a growing recognition of the need to address public concerns regarding the treatment of minors and the ongoing protests against governance issues in Nigeria.
