President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate release of all minors detained in connection with the #EndBadGovernance protests, according to the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris.
The announcement was made during a press briefing at the State House on Monday, where Idris revealed that the President had instructed the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, to implement the directive.
“President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the immediate release of all the minors currently facing trial for involvement in the recent protests,” Idris said.
He further emphasised, “The President’s directive is without prejudice to the ongoing legal proceedings.”
The protests, which took place in August, were sparked by economic hardship and rising inflation and lasted for 10 days. The demonstrations turned violent in some areas, with reports of protesters brandishing Russian flags in the northern states.
On 1 November, 76 individuals arrested for participating in the protests were charged with treason, including a significant number of malnourished minors.
Four of these minors reportedly collapsed in court, leading to public outrage and demands for their release in accordance with the Child Rights Act.
Idris disclosed that President Tinubu, motivated by his commitment to democracy and the rule of law, has also mandated the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to ensure the welfare and reunification of the released minors with their families.
“The President has also directed the immediate setting up of an administrative committee, to be headed by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, to examine all issues surrounding the arrest, detention and treatment of these minors,” the Minister said.
Additionally, Tinubu has ordered an investigation into the conduct of the law enforcement agencies involved in the arrests and arraignment.
Idris stated, “Any officials of Government found to have committed any infractions in this regard will be subjected to decisive and thorough disciplinary action.”
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