The House of Representatives Minority Caucus has called for compensation for minors detained and arraigned for allegedly participating in the hunger protest that took place in major cities across the country in August.
Persecondnews recalls that some Nigerians took to the streets on August 1 to protest hardships exacerbated by the removal of fuel subsidies by the President Bola Tinubu administration.
Last week, disturbing images emerged of children arrested during protests, sparking widespread outrage and condemnation both locally and internationally, with many accusing government officials of neglecting and starving these minors while in custody.
The Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, Minority Whip, Ali Isa, Deputy Minority Leader, Aliyu Madaki, and Deputy Minority Whip, George Ozodinobi, signed a statement on Friday calling for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the arrest and alleged ill-treatment of the protesters.
They also applauded President Bola Tinubu for ordering the minors’ immediate release after the Nigerian Police Force charged them with terrorism, treason, and arson.
The statement read: “While we commend the President for his timely intervention, the caucus strongly advocates for a thorough investigation, prosecution, and disciplinary action against the individuals and government agencies involved in this despicable, callous, and inhuman act that has led to national disgrace and global condemnation.
“Any person or institution responsible for detaining these children in cells for around 95 days—when they should have been attending school, learning trades, or practicing vocations — must be held accountable, with punitive measures issued to serve as a deterrent to others.
“Considering the psychological trauma and health challenges the children may have endured, we urge that quality reformatory therapy sessions and medical support be provided as they reunite with their families.
“We also call for immediate reparations for the children and their families to alleviate the hardships, pain, and emotional distress suffered during this period of unlawful detention.
“Following the recent release of about 76 young people charged with terrorism, treason, and arson by the Nigerian Police Force for participating in the #EndBadGovernance protest, the Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives praises President Bola Tinubu for being responsive to calls from Nigerians and the international community.
“We commend President Tinubu for his prompt directive, which came just days after the children’s arraignment and led the Attorney-General of the Federation to seek full control and termination of the case.”
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