EndBadGovernance: Northern Groups Demand Release of Detained Minors

ABUJA – Northern organizations, united under the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), have expressed outrage, calling for the immediate release of minors detained by the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) for over 90 days without trial. The minors were detained following protests in which they called attention to hunger and poor governance.

In a statement signed by CNG National Coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the Coalition condemned the prolonged detention of minors, some under 18, who were reportedly denied adequate food and medical care while in custody. During a recent arraignment at a Federal High Court in Abuja, at least four minors collapsed, which the Coalition attributes to harsh conditions, including starvation and mistreatment.

The statement read in part: “This ongoing detention and harsh treatment of these children grossly violates their basic rights, including freedom of expression and assembly. CNG condemns this misuse of power and the clear disregard for the welfare and dignity of our young citizens.”

CNG criticized the lack of attention to children’s rights, especially when their only action was peacefully calling for better governance. “It’s troubling that in a country with a history of resilience and potential, minors are being subjected to harsh conditions for simply expressing their hope for a better future,” the statement continued. “Such treatment not only breaches domestic law but also international human rights standards that protect children from harm and arbitrary detention.”

Highlighting the disparity in treatment, the Coalition remarked that while young protesters are held in such severe conditions, known criminals and bandits face far fewer consequences. “The government has shown that citizens’ hardships are not a priority,” it added, noting that frequent blackouts, soaring fuel prices, and the elimination of subsidies have driven the cost of living to record levels, exacerbating citizens’ hardships.

CNG further accused the government of failing to address the suffering of its people, while instead “detaining, abusing, and crushing vulnerable children who need support to grow into responsible adults.” They argued that hunger and mistreatment have become weapons used against defenseless teenagers, casting a shadow over the nation’s commitment to its young population.

The Coalition demanded the immediate release of all detained minors involved in the protests and urged the government to engage in constructive dialogue rather than intimidation. They also called on civil society and relevant agencies to provide immediate humanitarian support to the children to prevent further health deterioration.

“The protection of children is essential and non-negotiable,” CNG asserted, imploring authorities to show compassion and respect to the nation’s youth.