The arraignment of minors involved in the #Endbadgovernance protests has been met with strong condemnation from prominent political figures in Nigeria.
Rabiu Kwankwaso, former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and Shehu Sani, a former senator from Kaduna, have voiced their disapproval of the government's actions.
The controversy centers around the harsh treatment and stringent bail conditions imposed on the minors, who were reportedly involved in protests aimed at addressing economic challenges and governance issues in Nigeria.
One of the minors even collapsed in court, underscoring the dire health conditions they face. Kwankwaso expressed his concern on social media, questioning why "visibly malnourished minors, who should be in school, are being subjected to such harsh treatment."
He criticized the bail conditions, which require minors to provide ₦10 million and secure a grade 15 civil servant as a guarantor, calling them "absurd and unreasonable."
Kwankwaso further reminded the government of its obligations under the Child's Rights Act of 2003, emphasizing the need to protect children's rights to dignity and protection from abuse.
He urged authorities to reconsider the charges and allow the minors to return to their families, stating, "Our duty as leaders is to protect the most vulnerable among us – children, women, the elderly, and the needy."
Echoing these sentiments, Shehu Sani described the situation as "unfortunate and shameful" for Nigeria's democracy. He called for an immediate withdrawal of charges, urging the government to send the minors back to their respective states.
"Our country's democracy should not be stained by such an affront to children's rights," Sani stated.
Commenti