Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate release of all minors detained during anti-government protests in August, along with the dropping of treason charges against them, as announced by Information Minister Mohammed Idris.
During the protests, which were fueled by growing economic challenges, at least 76 individuals were charged with treason and incitement of a military coup, including 30 minors. According to Amnesty International, the demonstrations resulted in at least 22 fatalities amid clashes with security forces.
The public outrage intensified following the minors’ court appearance last Friday, leading to widespread criticism of the government’s actions. “The President has ordered the immediate release of these children,” Idris stated. The minors were granted bail on Friday, and their trial is set to begin in January.
In August, protests erupted in Lagos, Abuja, and several other cities as thousands of Nigerians voiced their discontent over Tinubu’s harsh economic reforms, which have driven inflation and resulted in a severe cost-of-living crisis. Despite the protests, Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to these reforms, emphasizing their importance for the nation’s financial stability.
