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Senator representing Niger East, Sani Musa has expressed concern over the detention and prosecution of some minors who were alleged to be among the #EndBadGovernance protesters.
Senator Musa who described as shocking the arraignment of some underaged for trial before an Abuja Federal High Court presided over by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, on Friday, urged the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to investigate circumstances surrounding the arrest and prosecution of some minors who were alleged to be among the #EndBadGovernance Protesters.
Justice Egwuatu has since granted N10 million bail to 72 defendants, including the malnourished minors, over their alleged participation in the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest.
The presiding judge also included in the bail terms that one of their sureties must be a civil servant of grade level 15 or higher, with a verifiable address within the court’s jurisdiction, while the other surety must be a parent of the defendant.
The judge, specified that each defendant must provide two sureties in like sum.
The lawmaker who is the Chairman Senate Committee on Finance condemned the detention of the minors and urged the NJC to probe the decision of the Judge who presided over their case.
His statement reads: “I strongly condemn the unjust detention of minors following the #EndBadGovernance protests.
“It is deeply troubling that, despite the hardships and challenges these young children have endured, there is a push to have them imprisoned rather than afforded compassion and understanding.
“Such actions are not only inhumane but also unjust.
“I also condemn the judicial stance advocating for the continued detention of these minors, which is entirely unacceptable and contrary to the principles of justice and fairness.
“I call upon the Inspector General of Police to launch an immediate investigation into this matter to ensure accountability and protect the rights of these young citizens.
“This issue must be addressed urgently, and I will continue to stand with my constituents and all Nigerians in the pursuit of justice and good governance.”
At the commencement of proceedings, the children, who looked ill and malnourished, were asked to come forward to take their plea.
Four of the minors were rushed out of the courtroom after they collapsed.
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