Surprise and Concern Over Police’s Treatment of Minors in #EndBadGovernance Protest
Rabiu Kwankwaso, a former Governor of Kano State and the flag bearer of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has expressed shock and concern over the recent arraignment of 67 minors in Abuja for allegedly participating in the #EndBadGovernance protest.
The children, many of whom appear malnourished and in need of medical attention, have been subjected to a difficult and distressing experience, Kwankwaso stressed.
“It’s appalling to think that these young, innocent children are being treated in such a manner. They deserve to be treated with dignity and compassion, not subjected to an experience that’s reminiscent of a harsh, unforgiving environment.
Rather than being in school, learning, and growing, these minors are being held in a system that seems designed to cause them harm, he said.
“The Nigerian government’s role is to protect the most vulnerable among us, including children, women, the elderly, and those in need,” Kwankwaso emphasized. “It’s unthinkable that our leaders would deliberately put these people in harm’s way, as is happening here.”
Kwankwaso also expressed his disapproval of the stringent bail conditions set for the minors, citing the Child Rights Act of 2003, which protects the dignity of every child and safeguards them from any form of harm, abuse, or neglect.
“These babies, in the grip of these unfair and inhumane laws, are being forced to find a staggering 10 million naira and a Grade 15 civil servant to stand surety for their release. This is wrong, morally and legally,” he said.
Kwankwaso urged the relevant authorities to reconsider the charges and allow the minors to return to their families and communities, where they can thrive and become responsible citizens.
