Nigeria’s Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has strongly condemned the unlawful detention of minors arrested during the #Endbadgovernance protests in August. These protests were a cry for help against the widespread hunger and economic distress plaguing Nigeria since President Bola Tinubu took office.
Unjust Detention and Human Rights Abuses
The detained minors appeared in court showing signs of severe hunger and malnutrition, highlighting the inhumane conditions they faced while incarcerated. CHRICED emphasizes that these children could be part of the Almajiri street children population in Northern Nigeria, which is a segment of the over 10 million children who are out of school nationwide ยน.
Their prolonged detention is not only unjust but also violates several key legal frameworks designed to protect children’s rights, including:
- United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child: Protects children from arbitrary detention and ensures their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
- Child Rights Act: Safeguards the rights and welfare of children in Nigeria.
- Administration of Criminal Justice Act: Mandates special consideration and care for minors, recognizing their vulnerability.
Call to Action
CHRICED demands the immediate and unconditional release of these minors, urging the government and relevant authorities to uphold the rights of all citizens, particularly the youth. The organization also denounces the arbitrary bail conditions set by Judge Obiora Egwuatu, requiring impoverished and malnourished children to pay N10 million each in bail bonds.
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