In a troubling development, an Abuja Federal High Court has granted bail of N10 million each to 67 minors who were recently arraigned for their involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protests.
These minors, all under the age of 15, faced treason charges, raising serious concerns about the government’s treatment of young individuals exercising their rights to peaceful assembly and expression.
The court’s decision to impose such a hefty bail reflects a disturbing trend in the government’s approach to dissent and underscores the urgent need for a critical examination of the legal and moral implications of these actions.
Understanding the #EndBadGovernance Protests
The #EndBadGovernance protests emerged as a powerful movement driven by the frustration of many Nigerians over a wide range of socio-political issues.
These include rampant corruption, poor governance, inadequate public services, and the overall failure of the state to fulfill its responsibilities to its citizens.
The movement is a call for accountability and a demand for a government that prioritizes the needs and welfare of its people.
Young people, who often bear the brunt of poor governance, have played a crucial role in these protests. They are the ones who are most affected by unemployment, lack of quality education, and the overall decline in living standards.
By participating in these protests, minors are asserting their right to be heard and are advocating for a future that offers them better opportunities.
However, instead of fostering an environment where young voices can be uplifted and heard, the government’s response has been one of repression.
Treason Charges and Bail Conditions
The decision by Justice Obiora Egwuatu to set bail at N10 million for each minor raises profound ethical and legal questions.
Treason is one of the most serious charges in any legal system, often associated with actions that threaten the existence of the state.
To charge minors—who are still in their formative years and are often driven by a sense of justice and fairness—under such severe allegations is both disproportionate and unjust.
Furthermore, the requirement for each minor to provide a surety who is a civil servant adds another layer of complexity and challenges to an already burdensome situation.
Many families of these minors may not have access to the networks or resources required to fulfill this condition. This not only places additional pressure on the families but also serves to criminalize the innocent and vulnerable, punishing them for their participation in civic engagement.
Detaining minors for their involvement in protests poses serious risks to their psychological, emotional, and social well-being.
Children are impressionable and often look to their leaders and society for guidance. By treating young protesters as criminals, the government sends a message that dissent is unacceptable, which could discourage future generations from engaging in activism or advocating for change.
This is particularly concerning in a democratic society, where public participation is essential for progress.
Moreover, the detention of minors can have long-lasting effects on their lives. Young people exposed to the criminal justice system at such a tender age may develop a negative perception of law enforcement and the government, fostering distrust and resentment that can persist into adulthood.
This is not just a failure of governance; it is a violation of their rights as children and citizens.
A Call for Legal and Ethical Responsibility
The legal system should serve as a protector of the rights of the vulnerable, especially minors. Instead of imposing harsh penalties on young individuals engaged in peaceful protests, the government should seek to educate and support them.
Encouraging civic engagement among youth is essential for a healthy democracy, and the government should act as a facilitator rather than a suppressor of these activities.
To uphold the principles of justice, it is vital for the judiciary and lawmakers to recognize the unique status of minors in the legal system.
International conventions, such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), emphasize the need to treat children with dignity and to recognize their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
The current legal actions against these minors stand in stark contrast to these principles and must be re-evaluated.
As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for civil society, human rights organizations, and concerned citizens to unite in condemning these actions and advocating for the rights of all individuals, particularly the youth.
Advocacy groups should rally to raise awareness about the unjust treatment of these minors and pressure the government to adopt a more humane approach to dissent.
This includes calling for the dropping of treason charges against the minors and providing them with the support and protection they need during this challenging time.
Moreover, the international community has a significant role to play in ensuring that Nigeria is held accountable for its actions. Diplomatic pressure, along with scrutiny from international human rights organizations, can help shine a light on the injustices occurring within the country.
Global citizens should raise their voices against the mistreatment of minors and call for a government that respects human rights and the rule of law.
The Need for Reform in Governance
The treatment of these minors in the context of the #EndBadGovernance protests is indicative of deeper systemic issues within the Nigerian government.
A failure to address the root causes of dissent and unrest will only perpetuate a cycle of anger and frustration among citizens.
Reform is necessary to ensure that the government becomes more accountable and responsive to the needs of its people.
This reform should start with a comprehensive review of laws and policies that criminalize peaceful protests and dissent. Policymakers must recognize that engaging with citizens—especially the youth—is vital for fostering a healthy political environment.
A government that listens to its citizens and addresses their grievances is one that can build trust and legitimacy.
The future of Nigeria lies in the hands of its youth. Rather than punishing them for advocating for change, the government should nurture their ambitions and engage with them constructively.
This means providing platforms for young voices to be heard and involving them in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
Encouraging youth participation in governance and civic activities can lead to more innovative solutions to pressing issues. By empowering young individuals, the government can foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among the youth, creating a generation that is more engaged, informed, and active in shaping the future of Nigeria.
In conclusion, the detention of minors involved in the #EndBadGovernance protests is an act of injustice that must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. It is imperative that the government reassess its approach to dissent and the treatment of young people.
The harsh actions taken against these minors are not just a violation of their rights but also a disservice to the future of Nigeria.
As citizens, it is our responsibility to stand up against these injustices and demand a government that respects the voices of all its people, especially the youth.
The path forward must involve dialogue, understanding, and a commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and human rights.
Only then can Nigeria hope to emerge as a nation that truly embodies the values of freedom, justice, and equality for all.
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Adejola Adeyemi Crown | Publisher Tropic Reporters | adejolanews@gmail.com | 07066518087
