National Telescope national telescope newspaper
President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate release of all minors detained for allegedly participating in August’s #EndBadGovernance protests.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, at a briefing held at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja.
According to Idris, “The President has ordered the immediate release of all the minors who have been arrested by the Nigeria Police, without prejudice to any ongoing legal processes. They are to be released immediately.”
The President’s directive also includes measures to ensure the welfare of the minors upon release.
The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction has been tasked with overseeing their reintegration and welfare, including reuniting them with their families.
Furthermore, an administrative committee, led by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, will investigate the circumstances of the minors’ detention, treatment, and release.
The committee will review any infractions by law enforcement officials involved in the arrest and handling of the minors. Disciplinary action will be taken against any officials found to have acted improperly.
This directive follows public outrage over the recent trial of 76 individuals, including 30 minors, aged between 14 and 17, who faced charges including treason, destruction of property, and public disturbance.
