The 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) Rabiu Kwankwaso has described as absurd, the N10 million bail slammed on 67 minors accused of participating in the #EndBadGovernance.
The former Kano state governor said the arraigned minors should be in school studying rather than facing trial before a court of law.
In a post made on his Facebook page, Kwankwaso said he is shocked over what he described as the violation of the children’s fundamental rights z
He added that the arraignment of the minors negates every tenet of the protection of human rights and dignity.
He said, “I am shocked by the arraignment of 67 minors by the Nigeria Police Force at a court in Abuja, for alleged participation in the End Bad Governance Protest.
These children, who are obviously malnourished and need medical attention have been subjected to a cruel experience when they should be in school.
The arraignment of such number of minors in their states is highly unusual and negates every tenet of the protection of human rights and dignity.
As leaders, it is our duty to protect the most vulnerable among us, particularly children, women, old and the needy. And the government should not be at the forefront of this violation.
I am particularly appalled by the stringent conditions set for their release, it is absurd that a teenager is ordered to source for 10 million Naira and a grade 15 civil servant for bail.
The Child’s Rights Act 2003, Section 11, protects the dignity of every child and protects them from any physical, mental or emotional injury, abuse, neglect or maltreatment.
I request that the relevant authorities should immediately review their charges so that they can go back to their families and be responsible citizens.
Finally, I will like to call on the Federal Government to face the challenges of banditry, kidnapping, Boko Haram, lack of stable electricity and excruciating economic policies rather than putting children behind bars. – RMK”
The former governor further urged the Federal Government and all relevant authorities to review the charges against the minors and ensure they are reunited with their families and loved ones.
