NIGERIAN authorities have decided to drop treason and other serious charges against dozens of protesters, including more than 30 minors, arrested during anti-government demonstrations in August. This decision follows widespread outrage over the treatment of these young detainees, some as young as 14, who were seen collapsing in court due to malnourishment.
President Bola Tinubu had previously called for the immediate release of all minors involved, particularly after disturbing footage emerged showing four of them suffering in court. These incidents ignited public outrage and brought attention to the broader issues surrounding the treatment of detained protesters. Following the viral videos, Tinubu stated that police and officials involved in the arrests should face investigation, signalling a shift in the government’s approach amid mounting pressure.
The protests, known as the #EndBadGovernance movement, erupted across Nigeria due to the worsening cost-of-living crisis. While police reported seven fatalities, human rights organisations have raised the death toll to 23, highlighting the violent clashes between protesters and security forces. Almost 700 individuals were arrested during these demonstrations, which reflected a growing discontent with the government.
In court, many of those detained faced allegations of conspiring to overthrow the government and displaying Russian flags. The court proceedings on Friday saw a dramatic display of the children’s suffering, prompting human rights group Enough is Enough to accuse the authorities of “institutional child abuse.” Amnesty International condemned the children’s detention, labelling it “one of the deadliest attempts to suppress freedom of assembly” in Nigeria’s recent history.
In a statement issued on Monday, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga confirmed that the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs had been tasked with ensuring the safe return of all minors to their families. An official investigation is now underway to examine the circumstances surrounding the minors’ lengthy detention. This response may be seen as a tactical retreat by the government, which has faced increasing scrutiny over its heavy-handed tactics against those protesting for improved governance.
The decision to drop the charges and release the children is viewed by some observers as a face-saving measure. Critics argue that the Nigerian government could have avoided such an embarrassing situation had it not employed a heavy-handed approach to deal with citizens expressing legitimate grievances. As Nigeria continues to grapple with these issues, the implications for governance and civil liberties remain a pressing concern.
