Arewa Consultative Forum Reacts To Trial Of Minors Over #EndBadGovernance Protest

In a statement issued on Sunday, the forum described the situation as a “show of shame” and a clear example of excessive official high-handedness.

Read Also: Nigerian Correctional Service Speaks On Minors Detained Over #EndBadGovernance Protest

He also voiced disappointment over the judge’s reported absence from court and the unreasonable bail conditions imposed on the detainees.

The forum observed that the incident casts President Bola Tinubu’s administration in a negative light, both domestically and internationally, as reflected in coverage by major global news outlets.

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) therefore urged the Federal Government to immediately end the detention and trial of the arrested individuals, release the “suspects,” and reunite them with their families safely.

Additionally, the ACF called on the government to investigate the circumstances surrounding the suspects’ detention, which has exceeded the constitutional limit of 24 hours, extending beyond three months.

It also recommended financial compensation for the detainees, who endured prolonged and unjust detention, along with access to medical assessments, necessary treatment, and professional psychological evaluation and counseling.

Moreover, the ACF pressed the Federal Government to re-evaluate its approach to managing protests, ensuring strict adherence to constitutional processes, good governance principles, and international best practices.