Atiku Abubakar Condemns Government's Treatment of Child Protesters Amid Outrage

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep horror at the Nigerian government’s handling of child protesters following their recent arraignment in a Federal High Court. The children, aged between 14 and 17, were among 76 individuals charged with serious offences, including treason and public disturbance, stemming from the #EndBadGovernance protests that took place in August 2024. The protests were fuelled by widespread dissatisfaction with the government’s policies amid a severe cost-of-living crisis.

Disturbing Conditions of the Minors

The sight of malnourished children being brought to court has sparked outrage across Nigeria. Eyewitness accounts revealed that several minors appeared visibly weak and dishevelled, with reports indicating that four of them collapsed in court due to exhaustion before they could enter a plea. The minors have reportedly been held in detention for over 90 days without proper food or medical care, raising serious concerns about their treatment and well-being.

In his statement, Atiku condemned the government’s actions as a blatant violation of the Child’s Rights Act, which guarantees the protection and dignity of children. He described the courtroom scene as reminiscent of historical injustices, stating, “The horrific scene we witnessed underscores the low value this government places on the lives of our most vulnerable citizens.” He emphasised that criminalising children for expressing their discontent is not only inhumane but also counterproductive to the principles of democracy.

Broader Implications of Child Detention

The prosecution of these minors has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, including human rights organisations and political leaders. Critics argue that the government’s actions reflect a broader systemic failure to protect children’s rights and uphold democratic values. The charges against these young protesters are seen as an attempt to stifle dissent and intimidate future generations from voicing their grievances.

The #EndBadGovernance protests were sparked by soaring inflation, unemployment, and widespread corruption, issues that disproportionately affect young people in Nigeria. Many participants were advocating for better governance, economic relief, and an end to policies perceived as oppressive. The decision to prosecute minors involved in these protests has raised alarm bells about the state’s approach to civil unrest and its implications for youth activism.

Calls for Immediate Action

In light of the outcry over the treatment of these minors, Atiku has called for an immediate review of their cases and urged the government to uphold justice and human dignity. He stated, “A nation is truly measured by how it treats its most vulnerable citizens,” emphasising the need for compassion and understanding rather than punitive measures against children.Other political figures, including former presidential candidate Peter Obi, have echoed similar sentiments, urging relevant authorities to investigate the inhumane treatment of these young protesters. The Take It Back movement and various civil society organisations have also condemned the charges against the minors, calling for their immediate release and an end to what they describe as a charade.

By Joseph Johnston,
Youth Editor,
Egogonews Hub

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