Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticized the Nigerian government’s decision to prosecute minors involved in the recent #EndBadGovernance protests, describing it as “inhumane” and a clear violation of children’s rights
Atiku Abubakar’s remarks follow the arraignment of 76 protesters, including many children, in a Federal High Court in Abuja. The protests, held between August 1 and August 10, 2024, were driven by public frustration over government policies widely seen as oppressive.
The #EndBadGovernance movement reflects widespread dissatisfaction with various government policies. Protesters have called for reductions in governance costs, restoration of the fuel subsidy, food security, and increased fiscal responsibility. Although primarily peaceful, some protests reportedly turned violent, leading to arrests and government crackdowns that have raised serious human rights concerns, particularly regarding the treatment of minors.
Atiku Abubakar expressed outrage over the government’s treatment of detained minors, especially the conditions they endured during custody and their court appearances. Referring to video evidence of malnourished children in court, he likened the scene to the harsh conditions found in Nazi concentration camps, emphasizing that such treatment shows the government’s “low premium” on vulnerable citizens.
“The horrific scene we witnessed underscores the low value this government places on the lives of our most vulnerable citizens,” Atiku remarked.
Atiku also raised concerns over the extended three-month detention of these minors before their arraignment, calling it a violation of both human rights and children’s rights laws. He argued that this treatment only deepens the injustices that led the children to protest in the first place.
Atiku highlighted the Nigerian Child’s Rights Act, which mandates protection for children and prohibits any form of physical or emotional abuse. According to Atiku, prosecuting minors in this case not only violates the Child’s Rights Act but also exemplifies a broader systemic failure to uphold children’s legal protections.
He called on the government to reassess these cases and prioritize principles of justice and human dignity. Atiku’s condemnation aligns with human rights groups’ concerns about the treatment of peaceful protesters and their rights to freedom of expression.
Atiku’s statements carry significant political implications, as he presents himself as an advocate for democratic principles and human rights, directly challenging President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Using the term “T-Pain” as a critical moniker for President Tinubu, Atiku underscores what he perceives as the administration’s lack of empathy and heavy-handed approach to dissent.
These remarks have gained support from other prominent figures, including Peter Obi, who similarly condemned the government’s actions against detained minors. Together, they have called for accountability and demanded that the government address the abuses suffered by detained children during the protests.
As public discontent over these actions grows, the government faces increasing calls for accountability and reform. Many Nigerians are disturbed by the harsh treatment of young protestors and demand a thorough investigation into the arrests and prosecution of these minors.
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