Kano Government Releases 76 Minors Detained Over #EndBadGovernance Protest, Highlights Unemployment Crisis

After two weeks of rehabilitation and counselling, the Kano State government has officially returned 76 minors, previously detained for their involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protests, to their parents.

The minors had been arrested and charged with treasonable felony and attempting to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu. Their detention sparked national and international outrage, particularly after five of them collapsed in court in early November, while others appeared malnourished and in poor condition.

The public outcry prompted President Tinubu to intervene and order their release. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Police insisted that the minors had been lawfully arraigned.

Human rights organizations, both local and international, condemned the actions of the government, claiming the release of the minors was merely an attempt to protect the president’s image.

Addressing the situation, the Chief of Staff to the Kano State governor, Shehu Wada Sagagi, emphasized that the government would not tolerate actions by certain parents who were attempting to collect donations or support for their children under the guise of a Parents Association. He made it clear that the government would take serious action against such activities.

“The events surrounding the #EndBadGovernance protest highlight the urgent need for all levels of government to address the pressing issues of unemployment and lack of education,” Sagagi said.

The Tinubu administration has faced accusations of suppressing opposition and criminalizing public protests.