Vice President Kashim Shettima has announced that President Bola Tinubu ordered the release of minors who were facing trial for treason, acting on compassionate grounds despite strong evidence against them.
In a statement on Tuesday, November 5, Shettima explained that there was clear digital video and photographic evidence, some of which was uploaded by the protesters themselves, showing their involvement in violent actions during recent protests. These actions caused significant damage to public and private property, leading to a loss of over N300 billion due to halted economic activities.
However, Shettima emphasized that President Tinubu, in his role as the “father of the nation,” chose to offer the minors a second chance to turn their lives around. “The President, as the Commander in Chief, instructed the release of these young people on humanitarian grounds, despite the evidence against them,” Shettima said.
He further encouraged the minors to use this opportunity to become responsible citizens and contribute positively to the country’s growth. “I urge you to avoid being used for violence and destruction, as we have suffered great losses,” Shettima added. “You are our children, and this is your chance to make a fresh start.”
The Vice President also called on the governors and elected representatives from across the country to work together in rehabilitating and reintegrating the released individuals into society. He stressed that unity among Nigerians is more important than political divides.
The 114 #EndBadGovernance protesters, both minors and adults, were earlier arraigned by the Nigeria Police Force but had their charges dropped by the Federal High Court in Abuja. They were received at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday, after their case was struck out by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, following a request from the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi.
The minors were handed over to their respective state governors, Uba Sani of Kaduna State and Abba Yusuf of Kano State, in a ceremony attended by several key officials, including the Ministers of Education, Humanitarian Affairs, and Environment, along with other government representatives.
The move to release the minors reflects the government’s commitment to giving young Nigerians a chance to build a better future, despite the severity of their actions during the protests.
