Tinubu Orders Probe of Security Agents Involved in Arrest, Detention of Minors

President Bola Tinubu has ordered a full investigation into the arrest and detention of minors involved in recent protests against government policies. The directive comes following widespread public concern over reports of minors detained for participating in the #EndBadGovernance demonstrations across the country.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced the president’s decision during a briefing at the State House. According to Idris, President Tinubu has instructed Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi to oversee the immediate release of minors involved in the protests, which reportedly escalated into violence in some areas, including looting and property destruction.

“The president has issued a directive for the immediate release of all minors involved in these protests and facing arraignment,” Idris said, adding that Tinubu is also committed to ensuring these children receive rehabilitation support. “The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction has been tasked to care for the minors and facilitate their reunion with families wherever they are in Nigeria.”

The president’s orders further include the establishment of an administrative committee, led by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, to investigate the arrests, detention conditions, and legal proceedings involving the minors.

“The president has mandated a thorough investigation into the conduct of law enforcement agents who carried out these arrests,” Idris said. “If any officials are found to have violated protocols or engaged in misconduct, disciplinary measures will be enforced.”

The incident traces back to a wave of #EndBadGovernance protests, which began in August, expressing frustrations over economic and governance issues. Although largely peaceful at the outset, protests in some areas grew tense, resulting in clashes, property damage, and reports of minor protesters bearing symbols, including Russian flags, in the northern regions.

On November 1, 76 individuals, most of them described as malnourished minors, were reportedly charged with treason for their roles in the protests. This development sparked national outrage after four minors collapsed in court during their arraignment, prompting public calls for the children’s release and justice for any rights violations they may have faced.

The attorney-general has since requested case files from the police to review the charges.