By Bauchi and Kano governors, alongside the Arewa Consultative Forum, have called for the release of minors facing treason charges in Abuja’s Federal High Court. Kano Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has directed the state’s Attorney General to take action on behalf of minors detained for allegedly seeking regime change during #EndBadGovernance protests in early August.
Kano’s Commissioner for Information, Baba Halilu Dantiye, confirmed the governor’s directive. Viral videos showing malnourished children among the detained have sparked outrage and demands for their immediate release. The Inspector-General of Police recently arraigned 76 protesters, including 32 minors, on charges related to treason, incitement, and intent to destabilize the nation.
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi expressed dismay over the treatment of the detained children, urging northern leaders to unite and address this issue. He criticized the N10 million bail requirement as “unreasonable” for families struggling under severe economic hardship and called for immediate release.
Senior lawyers, including Chief Mike Ahamba and Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, condemned the arraignment of minors. They argue that the charges are legally baseless and incompatible with the Child Rights Act, which mandates different treatment for children. Another lawyer, Kashopefoluwa Balogun, highlighted juvenile protections under Nigerian law that prohibit detaining minors with adults.
The Arewa Consultative Forum also criticized the trial as an abuse of power, urging the government to compensate and medically support the detained protesters. The National Human Rights Commission and other civil society organizations joined in denouncing the detention, labeling it a human rights violation and urging the government to prioritize children’s welfare and dignity.
The ongoing case has drawn national and international attention, with parents of the detained minors now planning to protest in Abuja until their children are freed.
