NIGERIA: Kwankwaso Condemns Arraignment of 67 Minors Over Protest Participation

By Utebor Paul, Nigeria 

Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has expressed shock over the recent arraignment of 67 minors by the Nigeria Police Force in an Abuja court, for allegedly participating in an “End Bad Governance” protest.

The minors within the age bracket of 13 to 17, 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, on Friday.

Kwankwaso, in a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), criticised the arraignment, noting that the children appeared visibly malnourished and in need of medical attention.

“These children, who are obviously malnourished and need medical attention, have been subjected to a cruel experience when they should be in school,” he said.

He further highlighted that the unusual nature of such arraignments contradicts principles of human rights and dignity, emphasising the responsibility of leadership to protect vulnerable groups, including children, women, the elderly, and the needy.

“It is our duty as leaders to protect the most vulnerable among us,” Kwankwaso stated, adding that the government should not lead in violating these rights.

Kwankwaso also raised concerns about the stringent bail conditions set for the minors’ release, describing them as “absurd.” He noted that some teenagers were required to provide 10 million Naira and secure a Grade 15 civil servant as surety for bail, conditions he deemed excessive and inappropriate for young individuals.

Citing the Child’s Rights Act 2003, Kwankwaso pointed to Section 11, which guarantees the dignity of every Nigerian child and protects them from abuse, neglect, and maltreatment.

He urged relevant authorities to review the charges to facilitate the minors’ release and allow them to return to their families.

Concluding his statement, Kwankwaso called on the Federal Government to prioritise critical issues like banditry, kidnapping, Boko Haram, and economic challenges, rather than detaining children.