Lawal Halimat
In a strong rebuke of the recent arraignment of 67 minors by the Nigeria Police Force, former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has expressed deep concern about the treatment of children involved in the #EndBadGovernance protest in Abuja. Speaking through a statement shared on his X handle on Friday, Kwankwaso noted that the minors appeared visibly malnourished and in urgent need of 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,” Kwankwaso stated.
The former governor underscored the government's role in protecting the most vulnerable members of society, emphasizing that the authorities should act as guardians, not oppressors. He remarked, “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.”
Kwankwaso also criticized the stringent bail conditions imposed on the minors. The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, set bail at ₦10 million for each child, totaling ₦760 million, and required two sureties per defendant. One surety must be a Grade 15 civil servant, and the other must be the parent of the minor. The conditions further specified that sureties must provide letters of promotion, letters of appointment, verified residential addresses, passport photographs, and international passports, and swear affidavits of means.
“It is absurd that a teenager is required to find ₦10 million and a Grade 15 civil servant as bail surety,” Kwankwaso remarked, questioning the practicality and fairness of the court's decision.
He further referenced the Child Rights Act of 2003, particularly Section 11, which ensures that every child is protected from any form of physical, mental, or emotional abuse, neglect, or maltreatment. “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.
Kwankwaso called on the Federal Government to redirect its focus toward tackling more pressing national challenges. “The government should address the challenges of banditry, kidnapping, Boko Haram, lack of stable electricity, and harsh economic policies rather than incarcerating children,” he said.
Reports from the Federal High Court session indicated that some of the minors collapsed during the hearing, with many looking visibly malnourished following three months of detention.
