The Nigerian government has taken a significant step in addressing the involvement of minors in the “End Bad Governance” protest. These minors, initially facing treason charges, have now been released and were recently welcomed at the Presidential Villa for a brief meeting with government officials, including key state leaders.
The “End Bad Governance” movement gained momentum across Nigeria, with many citizens, including minors, joining the call for reform and greater accountability in leadership. However, some of these young protesters were detained and charged with treason due to their involvement in the protests.
The Nigerian government’s decision to release them comes after President Bola Tinubu directed the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to take over the case and drop all charges. This move signals a softer stance on handling cases related to young protesters, focusing on reuniting these individuals with their families rather than pursuing harsh legal actions.
After their release, the minors arrived at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where they were welcomed by officials, including the governors of Kano and Kaduna States. These governors will oversee the final steps of ensuring the minors safely return to their families. The meeting, set for 2 pm at the State House Auditorium, is expected to be brief but aims to show the government’s commitment to resolving the situation peacefully and fairly.
The decision to release the minors reflects the Nigerian government’s evolving approach to addressing youth-led protests and reform demands. By discontinuing the case against these young individuals, the government is demonstrating a willingness to reconsider its handling of those advocating for change.
Observers suggest that this gesture may signal a greater openness to dialogue, particularly with youth voices, rather than strict punitive measures. While the government has yet to clarify any further actions, this release sets a notable precedent for how similar cases may be handled in the future.
