Following their release, Kaduna State is taking steps to provide them with support and opportunities for rehabilitation and growth.
Kaduna, Nigeria – In a bid to rehabilitate and reintegrate released protesters, the Kaduna State Government has gifted N100,000 and smartphones to 39 former #EndBadGovernance demonstrators.
Governor Sani Uba has emphasized his commitment to ensuring the youth become productive members of society and promised further empowerment if they adopt positive behavior.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abdulkadir Meyere, spoke on behalf of Governor Uba, explaining that the administration will continue to support the rehabilitated protesters.
Meyere revealed that the governor instructed him to gather the academic credentials of those who have completed their tertiary education, as the government aims to assist them in various ways.
“The Governor has assured that some of the youths will receive start-up capital for businesses, some will be trained in new skills, and others will be given employment opportunities,” Meyere said.
The SSG added that the state government is keen on monitoring the behavior of all 39 individuals before fulfilling these promises. As part of this initiative, the government has collected comprehensive information, including contact addresses, phone numbers, and next-of-kin details, to facilitate effective tracking and oversight.
The released protesters underwent medical examinations and psycho-social counseling sessions, focusing on self-improvement and societal contributions. Meyere noted that religious leaders, both Islamic and Christian, were involved in advising the youths. They preached messages of peace and faith, encouraging the young people to shun negative influences and strive for a better future.
“The religious teachings emphasized the importance of adhering to their faiths, staying away from harmful associations, and seeking God’s blessings both in this world and the hereafter,” he added.
The protests, which took place in August, were initially peaceful but escalated into violence in some areas, leading to significant property damage. The Federal Government later charged several protesters with a 10-count indictment, drawing public criticism, especially after some detainees were identified as minors.
The widespread backlash prompted President Bola Tinubu to order the release of the detained individuals. Following their release, Kaduna State is taking steps to provide them with support and opportunities for rehabilitation and growth.
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