By Chesa Chesa
Following public outrage, President Bola Tinubu on Monday ordered the release of all minors detained and arraigned in court on Firday by the police for treason following their participation in anti-hunger #Endbadgovernance protests last August.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this to State House correspondents at the Presidential Villa.
According to him, the president directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, to facilitate the process of the release of the children.
Idris stated that the president’s decision comes without prejudice to any ongoing legal processes and underscores the administration’s dedication to ensuring justice and fairness, as well as recognition of the rights of children and the importance of due process.
He said Tinubu further instructed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to prioritise the welfare of these minors and facilitate their smooth reunion with family members, and this is to be done by a inter-ministerial committee led by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
In addition to the release of the minors, the President ordered an investigation into the actions of law enforcement agencies involved in the arrests, and for sanctions to be meted for any infractions uncovered.
According to Minister Idris: “Mr. President, because of his very deep commitment to democracy and the rule of law, and what are prejudice also to whatever legal processes there are. On the other hand, on the human part of it has directed that some announcements be made.
“I recall that I had short briefing with Mr President early this evening,
and he has directed the immediate release of all the minors
that have been arrested by the Nigerian police,without prejudice to whatever legal processes there are
all minors the President have direct. Has directed that all of them be released immediately.
“Second, the President has also directed the ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and poverty reduction to immediately see to the welfare of those minors, and also take part to ensure that they are smooth reunion with their parents or guardians, wherever they are in the country.
“Number three, the President has directed that a committee will be set up immediately to be headed by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs. Is actually an Administrative Committee to look at all issues surrounding the arrest, detention, the treatment, and finally, the release of these young minors.
Fourthly, the President has also directed that all the law enforcement agents involved in the arrest and the legal processes will be investigated, and if there are any infractions, found to have been committed by any official of government, be him, a law enforcement agency, or whoever
that person may be appropriate, disciplinary action will be taken against him or her.”
