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Former Kano state governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has slammed the Federal government for the arraignment of 67 minors before an Abuja court over their alleged involvement in the End Bad Governance protest that held across Nigeria from July 31 to August 11.
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The minors said to be between 13 to 17 years old age were picked up mainly from Kano for allegedly flying the Russian flag while participating in the End Bad Governance protest. They were arraigned before the court on charges bordering on treason.
In a statement released via Social Media, Kwankwaso slammed the FG for arraigning the minors.
He posited that the Federal government should go after bandits, Boko Haram members and address other issues bothering Nigerians rather than working to get children behind bars. He went on to state that he is appalled by the stringent bail conditions set for their release.
The former governor stated that it is absurd that 10 million Naira and a grade 15 civil servant was set as the bail condition for teenagers. He called on the relevant authorities to review the charges filed against the minors so they go back to their families.
His statement reads
‘’I am shocked by the arraignment of 67 minors by the Nigeria Police Force at a court in Abuja, for alleged participation in the End Bad Governance Protest.
These children, who are obviously malnourished and need medical attention have been subjected to a cruel experience when they should be in school.
The arraignment of such number of minors in their states is highly unusual and negates every tenet of the protection of human rights and dignity.
As leaders, it is our duty to protect the most vulnerable among us, particularly children, women, old and the needy. And the government should not be at the forefront of this violation.
I am particularly appalled by the stringent conditions set for their release, it is absurd that a teenager is ordered to source for 10 million Naira and a grade 15 civil servant for bail.
The Child’s Rights Act 2003, Section 11, protects the dignity of every child and protects them from any physical, mental or emotional injury, abuse, neglect or maltreatment.
I request that the relevant authorities should immediately review their charges so that they can go back to their families and be responsible citizens.
Finally, I will like to call on the Federal Government to face the challenges of banditry, kidnapping, Boko Haram, lack of stable electricity and excruciating economic policies rather than putting children behind bars. – RMK
