Granting ten million naira bail for minors for terrorism charges is appalling— Fed Govt knocked
Granting ten million naira bail for minors for terrorism charges is appalling— Fed Govt knocked
Rabiu Kwankwaso, the former Governor of Kano State and presidential candidate for the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has voiced strong criticism over the bail conditions imposed on protesters involved in the #EndBadGovernance movement.
In a statement shared on his X account Friday, Kwankwaso condemned the arraignment of a significant number of minors, calling it highly unusual and a violation of fundamental human rights and dignity.
He highlighted the alarming malnourished condition of the minors, stressing the urgent need for medical care.
He said, “I am shocked by the arraignment of 67 minors by the Nigeria Police Force at a court in Abuja, for alleged participation in the End Bad Governance Protest.
“These children, who are obviously malnourished and need medical attention have been subjected to a cruel experience when they should be in school.
“The arraignment of such number of minors in their states is highly unusual and negates every tenet of the protection of human rights and dignity.
“As leaders, it is our duty to protect the most vulnerable among us, particularly children, women, old and the needy. And the government should not be at the forefront of this violation.
“I am particularly appalled by the stringent conditions set for their release, it is absurd that a teenager is ordered to source for 10 million Naira and a grade 15 civil servant for bail.
“The Child’s Rights Act 2003, Section 11, protects the dignity of every child and protects them from any physical, mental or emotional injury, abuse, neglect or maltreatment.”
He also urged the Federal Government to focus on tackling issues such as banditry, kidnapping, Boko Haram, unstable electricity, and harsh economic policies instead of incarcerating children.
