The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has condemned the prolonged detention of minors who were recently arraigned in an Abuja High Court after being held for over 90 days for participating in protests against hunger and poor governance.
The CNG has called for the immediate release of the young detainees, arguing that their treatment is both unjust and a violation of their fundamental rights.
CNG’s National Coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, in a statement issued on Saturday, said that many of the detained individuals are minors, and their condition has reportedly worsened due to a lack of food and medical attention. Disturbing reports emerged from the courtroom that at least four children collapsed during the arraignment, allegedly from hunger and poor treatment while in custody.
Comrade Charanchi disclosed that the conditions under which the children are held paint a grim picture of Nigeria’s justice system.
He criticized the government, stating that the detentions and mistreatment only serve to embarrass Nigeria internationally, highlighting a disregard for the rights and welfare of its citizens, particularly the young and vulnerable.
“The detention and suffering inflicted on these children, who simply exercised their constitutional rights to demand accountability, showcase a tragic failure on the part of state actors to respect basic human rights,” Charanchi said.
The Coalition noted that these minors had only sought a better future by voicing their concerns, and, rather than being supported, they were subjected to harsh conditions.
The CNG argued that children should be protected from harm and given guidance rather than treated as criminals, particularly when the country faces numerous challenges, such as widespread insecurity and economic hardship.
The statement also pointed out noted that while ordinary citizens, including minors, are detained under harsh conditions, those who destabilize the country, like certain criminals and bandits, often evade similar consequences.
This discrepancy, according to the Coalition, reflects a broader failure of the government to prioritize the welfare of its people.
The group further criticized the government policies, citing the recent elimination of fuel subsidies and the skyrocketing cost of basic necessities, which has left many Nigerians struggling with daily hardships.
The CNG argued that rather than addressing these pressing issues, the government appears to focus on suppressing young people who are simply seeking change.
CNG called civil society organizations to provide humanitarian support for the children to prevent further health deterioration.
The statement emphasized the need for the government to adopt dialogue over intimidation, particularly when dealing with the younger generation who represent Nigeria’s future.
The Coalition’s demand comes amid rising calls for government accountability and reform, with many Nigerians voicing concerns over deteriorating living conditions.
