The Network for the Actualisation of Social Growth and Viable Development has condemned the detention and reported mistreatment of minors involved in the #EndBadGovernance protests.
The group made the call in a statement signed by its Head of Office in Nigeria, Akingunola Omoniyi, which was made available to journalists in Abuja on Saturday.
It appealed to President Bola Tinubu to halt the trial of the hunger-stricken protesters, who are mostly minors.
The group added that the trial constitutes negative publicity, highly detrimental to the image and reputation of his administration.
The statement continued, “The look and appearance of the suspects speak loudly enough to the conscience of reason for those who care to listen. The government cannot wage war against its future leaders with such charges and in this manner. Even if the matter succeeds in court and the juveniles end up in prison, the government and the nation remain the ultimate losers.”
“NEFGAD is a citizens’ sector advocacy group deeply invested in the progress of the country and its leaders. Hence, this urgent call is directed solely to President Bola Tinubu, and we expect him to listen and act swiftly by stopping the trial before it is too late.”
PUNCH Online reports that around 75 young protesters were brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja by the Nigeria Police Force for arraignment on Friday, with some fainting before Justice Obiora Egwuatu.
The suspects, aged 12 to 15, were charged with 10 counts, including terrorism, an attempt to overthrow the government, and alleged mutiny in relation to their participation in the nationwide protest.
Justice Egwuatu granted bail to 67 of the 76 minors arraigned, set at ₦10 million each.
They were reportedly arrested on August 3 and remained in detention prior to their arraignment on Friday.
