President Tinubu orders the immediate release of minors detained over #EndBadGovernance protests, ensuring welfare support, family reunification, and a probe into law enforcement actions.

President Bola Tinubu has ordered the release of minors detained over their participation in August’s #EndBadGovernance protests. The directive, announced by Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, marks a response to the escalating outcry over the detention of young protesters. 

Many of these minors, reportedly between 14 and 17 years old, were being held on charges of treason, public disturbance, and other serious felonies after protesting economic hardships and policies perceived to deepen poverty in Nigeria.

Government Response to Public Outcry

During an emergency briefing at the Aso Rock Villa, Idris shared that Tinubu ordered the immediate release of all minors detained by police, despite the ongoing legal proceedings. 

“The President has directed the immediate release of all minors who were arrested by the Nigeria Police, without prejudice to whatever legal processes they are undergoing,” Idris said. The president's decision comes amid strong reactions to the treatment of minors, many of whom have reportedly been held in detention for nearly three months.

Key Directives from the President

1. Immediate Release of Detained Minors
   President Tinubu directed the immediate release of all minors detained by the Nigeria Police in connection with the protests. Despite ongoing legal processes, he ordered that these young individuals be freed without delay.
2. Welfare and Reunification with Families
   The President mandated the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to provide essential welfare support to the released minors. The ministry is also responsible for ensuring that each minor is safely and quickly reunited with their families or guardians across the country.
3. Formation of an Administrative Committee
   President Tinubu instructed the immediate establishment of an administrative committee led by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs to thoroughly investigate all aspects of the minors’ arrest, detention, treatment, and release. This committee will review the conditions and legality of their detention to provide accountability and transparency.
4. Investigation of Law Enforcement Conduct
   The President ordered a comprehensive investigation into the actions of law enforcement agents involved in these arrests and the subsequent legal proceedings. Any official found to have committed infractions or acted improperly in handling the cases of these minors will face disciplinary action.

Conclusion

Many are hopeful that this move represents a shift toward more compassionate governance, especially for younger citizens. The immediate release and welfare measures for these minors reflect the administration's awareness of public sentiment and its willingness to reassess responses to civil dissent.

While the immediate release of minors is a welcome development, citizens await the findings of the administrative committee and the outcomes of the investigation into law enforcement practices.