- UNICEF applauds President Tinubu’s decision, emphasizing it as a vital step for children’s welfare and rights protection in Nigeria
- The release affects 119 minors, reflecting the government’s commitment to child protection standards and avoiding future child detentions
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) praised Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s recent decision to release detained minors in the #EndBadGovernanceProtests.
Cristian Munduate, UNICEF’s representative in Nigeria, supported the president’s directive in a statement released by Communication Specialist Safiya Akan on Tuesday in Abuja.
Munduate emphasized that this directive reflects a commitment to children’s welfare, viewing it as a critical step in protecting the rights of minors involved in legal issues. According to Munduate, the order, which impacts 119 detained youths, highlights the government’s dedication to meeting both national and international child protection standards.
UNICEF called on the Nigerian government to strengthen efforts to avoid child detention and prioritize their well-being. The organization stressed the importance of treating children in conflict with the law with respect and dignity, keeping them out of adult detention facilities.
UNICEF also pledged to work closely with federal and state governments to support the released children. This collaboration will provide services for family tracing, mental health support, psychosocial care, and reintegration efforts.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the minors were initially charged at a Federal High Court in Abuja for their participation in the August protests.
They faced accusations including treason, inciting mutiny, and attempting to destabilize the nation. The charges were ultimately dismissed following President Tinubu’s release order.
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