Northern senators have commended President Bola Tinubu for his swift action in ordering the release of minors detained for participating in recent #EndBadGovernance protests against rising hunger and living costs.
These nationwide protests, initially peaceful, turned violent in some areas, leading to arrests for looting and property destruction.
Under Tinubu’s directive, charges against the detained minors, including treason, were withdrawn by the Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, with Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court terminating the case on Tuesday.
The Northern Senators Forum (NSF), led by Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (APC Katsina Central), expressed gratitude to the President for prioritizing the welfare of the detained youth, as well as to northern leaders who worked to secure their release.
In a statement signed by Yar’Adua, the NSF noted that Tinubu’s actions underscore his commitment to protecting the rights of Nigerian youth.
“By his directive to the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, to expedite the release process, this is a welcome development, and we appreciate the president’s leadership in addressing this critical issue,” he said.
Yar’Adua also called on leaders in the North to continue advocating for the safety and education of northern children, saying, “It is essential that we create an environment where they can grow and thrive, free from harm and exploitation. Let us work together to ensure that our youth receive the support and resources they need to become active contributors to Nigeria’s growth and development.”
The arrests of 76 individuals, including 32 minors, during protests from August 1 to 10 had stirred national outrage, with civil society groups and human rights activists condemning the charges, which included treason and incitement to mutiny.
Protesters were detained in Abuja, Kaduna, Gombe, Plateau, Katsina, and Kano, facing accusations of destabilizing the government by calling on the military to intervene.
The decision to drop the charges has been seen as a positive step toward reconciliation and youth empowerment.
