independent.co.uk
Release of 29 Nigerian Child Protesters
29 Nigerian children, detained for over two months on charges that included treason, were released following public outcry. Their arrests highlighted human rights concerns in Nigeria.
English
United Kingdom
JusticeHuman Rights ViolationsHuman RightsGender IssuesAfricaProtestsNigeriaChildren
Nigerian AuthoritiesNigerian GovernmentThe Associated PressThe Independent
Bola TinubuAdo AbdullahiIkililu SaniHabibuMarshal Abubakar
- What broader concerns does this case highlight?
- The children's case highlighted concerns about human rights in Nigeria and the treatment of minors within the justice system. Their malnourished state upon initial court appearance underscored these concerns.
- What prompted the release of the detained children?
- The children's release followed growing calls from activists and international pressure. President Bola Tinubu ordered their release and an investigation into the law enforcement agents involved.
- How many children were released and what were their ages?
- Twenty-nine Nigerian children, aged 14-17, were released from detention after over two months. They had been arrested for alleged participation in protests against the high cost of living and faced potential death sentences.
- What was the response from activists and lawyers following the release?
- Following the children's release, lawyers and activists urged the Nigerian government to ensure their welfare and provide educational support. They called the release a 'first step in the right direction'.
- What were the children initially accused of, and what were the parents' accounts of their arrests?
- The children were initially charged with destruction of property, mutiny, and treason, but their parents claimed they were arrested while running errands or retrieving a motorcycle.