The Nigerian government faces increasing scrutiny as calls intensify for the release of minors detained during recent protests against the rising cost of living. Human rights organizations and political leaders are demanding immediate action, citing serious felony charges against the young detainees and alarming reports of their treatment in custody. Amidst widespread public outrage, Amnesty International condemned the situation as a severe violation of rights, highlighting the broader implications of state repression in Nigeria.
A total of 76 individuals, including 30 minors aged between 14 and 17, were arraigned on Friday in Abuja, facing ten felony counts, including treason, destruction of property, public disturbance, and mutiny, as reported by the Associated Press.
Outrage erupted following distressing scenes of the minors fainting in court, which sparked backlash from politicians and civil society organizations. The minors have been in custody for three months since their arrests in August, prompting calls for their immediate release.
Politician Peter Obi, who ran for president in 2023, commented on the situation, stating, “The footage shows minors in such weak condition that they could hardly stand, with some fainting from extreme fatigue and lack of food.”
Amnesty International condemned the detentions, describing them as “horrifying” and part of “one of the deadliest attempts to suppress freedom of assembly” in Nigeria. The organization criticized the charges against the minors, who participated in protests against hunger and corruption.
In response to allegations of mistreatment, the office of the Nigerian Inspector General of Police denied any wrongdoing, asserting that medical assistance was provided to the detainees and emphasizing that “age does not exempt individuals from facing legal consequences.” Police spokesperson Muyiwa Ogunjobi stated that individuals over the age of seven can be charged in court.
The minors have been granted bail, with their legal representatives announcing that their trial is scheduled to take place in January. On Sunday, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) urged President Bola Tinubu to use his leadership position to release the minors “within the next 48 hours,” asserting that their detention is solely for the peaceful exercise of their human rights.
The group also called for an investigation into the serious human rights violations affecting the minors and other protesters. Reports from Nigeria’s Punch news indicate that Justice Minister Lateef Fagbemi has initiated steps to drop the charges against the minors.
Frustration over the ongoing cost-of-living crisis has led to a surge in protests across Nigeria in recent months. Notably, at least 20 individuals were killed and hundreds more arrested during a demonstration in August advocating for better job opportunities for the youth.
