On Tuesday, Vice President Kashim Shettima addressed the recently released minors who had been detained following their involvement in August’s #EndBadGovernance protests, urging them to rebuild their lives and make positive contributions to society.
Speaking at the State House Auditorium in Abuja, Shettima highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s decision to release the minors on humanitarian grounds despite existing evidence of their participation in the protests, which led to an economic loss estimated at N300 billion.
Shettima said, “The President and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, Bola Tinubu, instructed the release of these minors on humanitarian grounds, despite incontrovertible digital evidence of their involvement, with some actions even documented by the participants themselves.
“The President, as a father to all Nigerians, sees this as a chance for these young individuals to reshape their futures and contribute positively to the nation.”
He urged the minors not to allow themselves to be drawn into acts of violence or property destruction, reminding them of the heavy losses incurred during the protests. “I would like to admonish you, young men, not to be used in perpetrating violence and destroying public and private property. Over N300bn was lost in the protests,” he continued.
Earlier on Monday, President Tinubu directed the Attorney General of the Federation to arrange the immediate release of the detained minors. This directive came shortly after 76 people, including 30 minors, were charged with inciting violence and waving foreign flags in an anti-government protest against economic hardship.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, confirmed this to the press, highlighting that the president’s decision reflects a balance between legal measures and humanitarian concerns.
“I had a briefing with Mr. President, who has ordered the immediate release of all minors detained by the police. They are minors, and they should not suffer long-term detention without a chance for reform,” Idris stated.
In August, widespread protests erupted across Nigeria under the #EndBadGovernance movement, fueled by public discontent over economic issues. Among the detained were 76 individuals, aged 14 to 17, who were charged with serious offenses, including treason and inciting a coup.
Notably, some minors collapsed during their arraignment, prompting public outrage and demands from human rights advocates. Following this, President Tinubu also instructed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to prioritize the well-being of the minors and ensure their safe reunification with their families.
To the released detainees, Shettima reiterated the importance of personal responsibility: “I urge you to embrace this opportunity provided by the President’s compassionate gesture to rise above challenges and become responsible citizens contributing to the growth of Nigeria.”
Shettima also called on governors and political leaders to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of the released minors. “Our unity as citizens transcends our differences. I urge all governors and representatives to come together to rehabilitate and reintegrate these youths back into their communities,” he added.
Kano State Governor Receives Released Minors
In Kano, Governor Abba Yusuf expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his empathy and commitment to justice, describing the release as a significant act toward the youth of the state.
“The President’s compassionate response to the appeals from within and outside Nigeria demonstrates his commitment to justice,” Yusuf said as he welcomed the minors back to the state.
The minors will undergo a medical evaluation and receive necessary support to aid their reintegration into society. Governor Yusuf also promised to enroll them in schools and provide resources for a stable future.
Federal High Court Dismisses Charges Against Protesters
Meanwhile, the Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed all charges against the 119 #EndBadGovernance protesters. Citing Section 174 of the Nigerian Constitution, the Attorney General of the Federation, represented by M.D. Abubakar, requested to take over and discontinue the case, which was accepted by the court without opposition.
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, who represented the defense, commended the government’s decision but emphasized the need for the released minors to receive educational opportunities and support. “It’s not enough to terminate the trial. These young people deserve rehabilitation and education. If the government fails to act, we will take them to court,” he warned.
In a call for unity, Bishop Hassan Kukah of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto urged Nigerians to remain united and view the recent developments as an opportunity to move forward, asserting, “This is a great country, and we must protect it as such.”
This comprehensive approach by the Nigerian government, including court action and executive orders, reflects a bid to prioritize the welfare of its youth and address public calls for compassionate justice.