Northern region calls for release of minors charged with treason

Governors from Bauchi and Kano States, along with the Arewa Consultative Forum, are calling for the immediate release of minors arrested during #EndBadGovernance protests currently facing treason charges in an Abuja Federal High Court.

Kano Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has instructed the state’s Attorney General to take action to secure the release of minors arrested during #EndBadGovernance protests in Kano and Kaduna from August 1 to 10. Information Commissioner Baba Halilu Dantiye confirmed this directive, emphasizing the need for justice for the affected children.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, arraigned 76 protesters, including 32 minors, before Justice Obiora Egwuatu, with charges including treason and inciting mutiny. Viral videos depicting the malnourished children sparked widespread outrage and calls for their release.

In response to the arraignment, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi stated that the North must unite and address the issues affecting its youth, expressing deep concern over the treatment of these children.

Senior lawyers have voiced differing opinions on the legality of the charges against the minors, emphasizing the need for a humane approach to justice and the protection of children’s rights.

The National Human Rights Commission condemned the arraignment as excessive and inappropriate, urging the government to respect the legal frameworks that protect children’s rights.