Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has expressed shock at the recent arrest of 67 minors by the Nigerian Police in Abuja for allegedly participating in the #EndBadGovernance protests.
Mr Kwankwaso condemned the development and expressed grave concerns about the treatment of children.
The flag bearer of the 2023 New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) on Friday shared his concerns through his X account.
He highlighted their malnourished condition and urgent need for medical care.
“Children who are clearly malnourished and in need of medical care are being subjected to cruel experiences when they should be attending school.
“The arraignment of so many minors in the state is highly unusual and undermines all tenets of human rights and dignity,” he said.
He stressed that it is the government’s responsibility to protect vulnerable people from harm.
He said: “As leaders, it is our duty to protect the most vulnerable among us, especially children, women, the elderly and those in need. The government must be at the forefront of this violation. Do not stand.”
Commenting on the strict bail conditions set for minors, he said: “It is unreasonable to ask a teenager for £10 million and a grade 15 civil servant as a bail bondsman.”
Citing the Child Rights Act 2003, he said: “Article 11 protects the dignity of every child and protects them from physical, mental and emotional harm, abuse, neglect and abuse.” said.
He called for immediate action and urged authorities to reconsider the charges.
“We urge the relevant authorities to immediately reconsider these charges so that these minors can be returned to their families and become responsible citizens,” he urged.
