..Urges Tinubu’s fatherly intervention
The Renewed Kaduna Restoration Group, (RKRG), has condemned the detention and reported mistreatment of minors involved in the #EndBadGovernance protests.
The Group made the call in an interview with the Chairman, Voice of Liberty, Alhaji (Dr.) Ahmed Tijjani Ramalan, yesterday, in Abuja.
The RKRG called on President Bola Tinubu to halt the trial of the hunger-stricken protesters, who are mostly minors.
The Group added that the trial by the Nigerian Police constitutes negative publicity, highly detrimental to the image and reputation and brought disrepute to his administration, local and international.
Ramalan said: “The look and appearance of the suspects speak loudly enough to the conscience of reason for those who care to listen. The Nigerian Police Force cannot wage war against our future leaders with such charges and in this manner.
“Even if the matter succeeds in court and the juveniles end up in prison, the Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” administration and the nation remain the ultimate losers.
“RKRG is a citizens’ sector advocacy group deeply invested in the promotion of Democracy, Good Governance, Rule of Law and progress of the country and its leaders. Hence, this urgent call is directed solely to President Bola Tinubu; and we expect him to listen and act swiftly, by stopping the trial before it is too late”.
Voice of Liberty reports that around 75 young, malnourished hunger protesters were only brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja by the Nigeria Police Force for arraignment on Friday, after over 83 days in detention, with some fainting before Justice Obiora Egwuatu.
The suspects, aged 12 to 15, were charged with 10-counts, including terrorism, an attempt to overthrow the Government, and alleged mutiny in relation to their participation in the nationwide protest.
Justice Egwuatu granted bail to 67 of the 76 minors arraigned, set at ₦10 million each.
They were reportedly arrested on August 3, and remained in detention prior to their arraignment on Friday, while their known high-profile Sponsors were not arrested by the security agencies despite reports.
