Kwankwaso Decries Absurd Bail Conditions For Minors Arrested
Former Kano State Governor and presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has expressed displeasure and criticised the bail conditions imposed on the #EndBadGovernance protesters.
He stated that the arraignment of such a large number of minors is highly unusual and undermines the fundamental principles of human rights and dignity.
In a statement posted on his X account on Friday, Kwankwaso emphasized the malnourished state of the minors and the urgent need for medical attention.
He said, “I am shocked by the arraignment of 67 minors by the Nigeria Police Force at a court in Abuja, for alleged participation in the End Bad Governance Protest.
“These children, who are obviously malnourished and need medical attention have been subjected to a cruel experience when they should be in school.
“The arraignment of such number of minors in their states is highly unusual and negates every tenet of the protection of human rights and dignity.
“As leaders, it is our duty to protect the most vulnerable among us, particularly children, women, old and the needy. And the government should not be at the forefront of this violation.
“I am particularly appalled by the stringent conditions set for their release, it is absurd that a teenager is ordered to source for 10 million Naira and a grade 15 civil servant for bail.
“The Child’s Rights Act 2003, Section 11, protects the dignity of every child and protects them from any physical, mental or emotional injury, abuse, neglect or maltreatment.”
He also urged the Federal Government to focus on tackling issues such as banditry, kidnapping, Boko Haram, unstable electricity, and harsh economic policies instead of incarcerating children.
