President Bola Tinubu has issued a directive for the immediate release of all minors detained following their involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protests in August.
The protests, which erupted nationwide, led to the arrest and arraignment of numerous young participants, sparking public outrage.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this announcement on Monday after President Tinubu swore in seven newly appointed ministers approved by the Senate.
Idris noted that the President’s directive stands irrespective of the ongoing legal proceedings involving the minors.
“The President ordered the immediate release of the minors without prejudice to whatever legal processes that are ongoing,” Idris stated.
Tinubu also tasked the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction with ensuring the welfare of the released minors and overseeing their reunification with their parents or guardians, wherever they may be across the country.
The President mandated the formation of a committee led by the humanitarian affairs ministry.
This committee will investigate the circumstances of the arrests, detention conditions, and the treatment of the minors, ensuring a comprehensive approach to their release.
On November 1, 2024, public outrage peaked as 72 minors were brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja, accused of crimes including treason.
Arrested across various states, including Kaduna, Abuja, Gombe, Jos, Katsina, and Kano, some of the young defendants appeared visibly malnourished and even collapsed in court.
The presiding judge, Obiora Egwuatu, subsequently granted each of the 72 minors bail set at N10 million.
