Former presidential candidate and prominent Nigerian politician Rabiu Kwankwaso has openly criticized the Nigerian government for its recent decision to prosecute minors allegedly involved in an #EndBadGovernance protest.
Kwankwaso, representing the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), expressed his concerns on social media, urging President Bola Tinubu’s administration to redirect its focus toward pressing issues, such as banditry, kidnapping, and the ongoing Boko Haram threat, instead of prosecuting children.
Reports indicate that the minors were brought into a courtroom on Friday following their involvement in nationwide protests held from August 1 to August 10. These protests, which voiced public frustration over governance, attracted attention across the country.
Eyewitnesses at the court described disturbing scenes, including the sight of visibly undernourished minors being put on trial. One child reportedly collapsed while waiting in the courtroom, highlighting the physical and emotional stress endured by the young defendants.
Kwankwaso took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice his disappointment, calling the government’s actions “cruel” and pointing out that such treatment of minors runs counter to the spirit of Nigeria’s laws, particularly those that aim to protect children’s rights.
He argued that these children should be in school, not facing criminal charges in court. He added that the arraignment of so many young people is “highly unusual” and disregards basic principles of human rights and dignity.
“As leaders, it is our duty to protect the most vulnerable among us, particularly children, women, old and the needy. And the government should not be at the forefront of this violation.
“I am particularly appalled by the stringent conditions set for their release, it is absurd that a teenager is ordered to source for 10 million Naira and a grade 15 civil servant for bail.
“The Child’s Rights Act 2003, Section 11, protects the dignity of every child and protects them from any physical, mental or emotional injury, abuse, neglect or maltreatment,” Kwankwaso tweeted.
