Nigerians have criticised the arraignment of minors who allegedly participated in the #EndBadGovernance protests.
A nationwide protest against economic hardship and “bad governance” was held from August 1–10.
The protesters demanded a reduction in the cost of governance, a return to the petrol subsidy regime, food security, and fiscal discipline, among others.
The demonstration turned violent in some parts of the country, with looting and vandalism recorded in some states. The police announced the arrest of the alleged perpetrators in some states.
On Friday, some of the protesters arrested, who are mostly minors, were arraigned at a federal high court in Abuja.
At the commencement of court proceedings, four of the alleged protesters were hurriedly rushed out of the courtroom after they collapsed and writhed in pain.
Reacting to the incident, Shehu Sani, a former senator representing Kaduna central, described the development as “unfortunate and shameful” to the nation’s democracy.
“The arraignment of those minors for their participation in protest is most unfortunate and shameful for our country’s democracy,” he said.
“The FG should withdraw the charges against them and return them back to their states.”
Festus Ogun, a human rights lawyer, described the arraignment as a “gross” violation of human rights as regards the children.
Take it Back Movement, a non-governmental organisation, described the situation as oppression and tyranny by the government.
“76 EndBadGovernance protesters, many barely 15 or 16, are arraigned after mistreatment in detention. Malnourished and fainting in court, their plight exposes the tyranny that must be confronted. We condemn this oppression & demand their immediate release!” the statement reads.
Enough is Enough Nigeria (EiE), a civil society organisation, said arraignment of the protesters is inhumane and demanded the release of the minors.
“They were hungry. They spoke up. Now they’re in prison. Teenagers as young as 14 have been detained for exercising their right to protest in Nigeria. This is inhumane. Release these children immediately!,” EiE wrote.
