President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has responded to public outcry over the treatment of juveniles imprisoned in connection with the #EndBadGovernance rallies by ordering their immediate release.
On behalf of the minors, human rights attorney Femi Falana declared plans to pursue restitution and educational assistance for the children in custody.
Minister of Information Mohammed Idris told reporters, “The president has ordered the immediate release of all the minors.”
Ongoing legal proceedings are unaffected by the directive, nevertheless. Idris clarified that the circumstances behind the arrests will be looked into by a committee headed by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs. “Any government official who is found to be at fault will be disciplined,” he continued.
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The children are among 76 individuals accused of treasonous felony for taking part in the August 1–10 protests.
The Federal High Court in Abuja last week issued them each a N10 million bail bond, but they were still being held until the provisions of the bond were fulfilled.
Demands for swift action and nationwide outrage were triggered by the sight of juvenile detainees in court.
In response to the president’s order, Falana declared his intention to seek more restitution, highlighting the educational requirements of the children.
“Until the matter is withdrawn,” he declared. “After that, we intend to request payment to pay for their education up to senior secondary school at the latest.”
Section 18 of the 1999 Constitution and the Child’s Rights Act, which require child justice procedures for juvenile matters, are two legal legislation upon which Falana’s planned application is founded.
