FORMER Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has condemned the recent arraignment of 67 minors by the Nigeria Police Force in Abuja for allegedly participating in the #EndBadGovernance protest.
Expressing shock at the development, Kwankwaso voiced grave concern over the treatment of the children.
In a statement, his personally on Friday, Kwankwaso highlighted their malnourished condition and urgent need for medical care.
“These children, who are clearly malnourished and in need of medical attention, have been subjected to a cruel experience when they should be in school.
“The arraignment of such a large number of minors in their states is highly unusual and undermines every tenet of human rights and dignity,” he added.
He stressed that it is the government’s responsibility to protect vulnerable groups from harm.
He stated, “As leaders, it is our duty to protect the most vulnerable among us, particularly children, women, the elderly, and the needy. The
government should not be at the forefront of this violation.”
Speaking on the stringent bail conditions set for the minors, he said, “It is absurd that a teenager is required to find ₦10 million and a Grade 15 civil servant as bail surety.”
Citing the Child Rights Act of 2003, he noted, “Section 11 protects the dignity of every child and shields them from any physical, mental, or emotional injury, abuse, neglect, or maltreatment.”
Calling for immediate action, he urged authorities to reconsider the charges.
“I request that the relevant authorities immediately review these charges so that the minors can return to their families and become responsible citizens,” he urged.
He also called on the Federal Government “to address the challenges of banditry, kidnapping, Boko Haram, lack of stable electricity, and harsh economic policies rather than incarcerating children.”
Earlier, at the Federal High Court in Abuja, some minors arraigned over the #EndBadGovernance protest collapsed in the courtroom, many appearing visibly malnourished after three months of incarceration.
Following their arraignment, Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja granted bail to the #EndBadGovernance protesters, setting each bail at ₦10 million, totalling ₦760 million.
Each defendant is required to have two sureties. The judge specified that one surety must be a Level 15 civil servant, and the other must be the defendant’s parent.
The sureties are also required to submit letters of last promotion, letters of appointment, and valid identification to the court.
They must provide verified addresses, passport photographs, international passports, and swear an affidavit of means.