President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate release of 52 minors who were detained during the #EndBadGovernance protests, a movement that has gained significant traction across Nigeria. The protests, largely led by young Nigerians, called for government accountability and an end to perceived injustices, including police brutality and corruption. The minors, who were among hundreds of individuals detained, have become a focal point of public outcry as many citizens questioned the necessity of their arrest and prolonged detention.
This move by President Tinubu is widely seen as a step toward addressing lingering grievances from previous protests, particularly in the wake of the #EndSARS protests, where allegations of police violence and unlawful detentions caused a national uproar. With this directive, the president appears to signal a commitment to protecting the rights of young Nigerians and ensuring that the justice system respects the rights of minors. The decision has been well-received by civil rights organizations, which have long campaigned for the release of those detained, particularly the most vulnerable.
Many Nigerians are hopeful that this action marks the beginning of a shift in the government’s approach to handling public dissent and citizen concerns. Advocacy groups are calling for broader reforms to prevent future detentions of minors in similar circumstances, emphasizing that peaceful protesters, especially children, should not be subjected to punitive measures. As President Tinubu’s administration continues to address the nation’s pressing issues, this gesture may be an important step in rebuilding public trust and promoting a more empathetic, responsive governance model.
