In response to the recent detention of minors linked to the #EndBadGovernance protest, Senator Sani Musa, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, has called for an urgent investigation by Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and the National Judicial Council (NJC).
The senator voiced strong concerns over the treatment of young protesters, condemning what he described as an inhumane response to their alleged involvement in the protest.
The minors, alongside other protesters, were detained following nationwide demonstrations against perceived governance failures under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The protests, which began on August 1 and concluded on August 10, 2024, attracted large crowds across the country, as citizens gathered to voice dissatisfaction with current leadership and push for reforms.
However, in the aftermath, many participants were arrested, including minors, sparking widespread criticism and calls for justice.
Senator Musa, representing Niger East, emphasized his concerns in a public statement issued on Friday from Abuja. He noted that the treatment of the minors went against principles of justice and human dignity, urging the NJC to review the conduct of the presiding judge responsible for their case.
The detained minors and other protesters appeared before Justice Obiora Egwuatu at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where they faced charges related to their involvement in the #EndBadGovernance movement.
Although Justice Egwuatu granted bail to the 72 defendants, including the minors, the conditions were set at N10 million per defendant, requiring two sureties in the same amount.
Critics have called this bail requirement excessive, especially given the vulnerable status of some of the defendants, described by the senator as “malnourished minors.”
Reflecting on the situation, Senator Musa stated, “I strongly condemn the unjust detention of minors following the #EndBadGovernance protests. It is deeply troubling that despite the hardships and challenges these young children have endured, there is a push to have them imprisoned rather than afforded compassion and understanding.
“Such actions are not only inhumane but also unjust. I also condemn the judicial stance advocating for the continued detention of these minors, which is entirely unacceptable and contrary to the principles of justice and fairness.
“I call upon the Inspector General of Police to launch an immediate investigation into this matter to ensure accountability and protect the rights of these young citizens.
This issue must be addressed urgently, and I will continue to stand with my constituents and all Nigerians in the pursuit of justice and good governance.”