- Amnesty International condemned the persistent detention of #EndBadGovernance protesters by President Tinubu’s government
- The organisation criticised the detention of minors who collapsed in court, showcasing severe malnutrition
- Justice Emeka Nwite authorised a 60-day detention period for the minors amid allegations of treason
The global human rights group Amnesty International has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s government for the persistent detention of #EndBadGovernance protesters, which has been occurring since August.
The administration also faced backlash from Amnesty International for holding minors who have suffered malnutrition and collapsed in a Federal High Court in Abuja during their arraignment on Friday, November 1 for their involvement in protests against severe hunger and bad governance.
Amnesty International condemns detention of minors
“Amnesty International condemns President Bola Tinubu’s government for the continued detention of minors for participating in the August #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests,” the organisation posted on its X account, formerly Twitter.
The protest was aimed at addressing the worsening insecurity and hardship in the country. Meanwhile, photos and videos from the incident, shared on Friday, showed some of the teenagers who have been detained since August lying on the courtroom floor.
The teenagers' detention was mandated by Justice Emeka Nwite, who approved a police ex-parte application to keep them in custody for 60 days to finalise their 'investigation' regarding the protesters accused of trying to topple President Tinubu’s administration.
Amnesty International demands release of minors facing treason charges
Amnesty International stated that efforts to subject the minors to a mock trial for treason reflect President Tinubu’s government's complete disregard for the rule of law and human rights.
The organisation further said, “The attempts to put the minors through a sham trial over alleged ‘treason’ shows the government’s utter disregard for the rule of law.
“The authorities must release them immediately and unconditionally.”
Nigerians mark Independence Day with “fearless in October” protests, reiterate demand for reforms
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that as Nigeria celebrated its 64th independence anniversary, protesters gathered under the banner of “Fearless in October,” demanding relief from the economic hardship.
The protesters pushed for solutions to the high cost of living, and reforms in electoral processes, among others.