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The National Youth Alliance (NYA) has said that it is deeply disturbed by the recent acts of persecution and undue hardship imposed on young Nigerians who bravely exercised their constitutional right to protest under the #EndBadGovernance movement.
In a statement, NYA President, Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas said that among the 76 individuals detained following the August 2024 protest, several were minors, some of whom have been denied basic human dignity and justice by both the Nigerian judicial system and the government.
According to the statement signed by his SA Media and Publicity, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, made available to newsmen in Kaduna, NYA said, “In a decision that has drawn widespread condemnation, presiding Judge Justice Obiora Egwuatu set bail at an exorbitant N10 million per defendant.
“This excessive amount is accompanied by rigorous conditions, including the requirement for each detainee to present two surety—one being a civil servant of at least grade level 15 with a verifiable address within the court’s jurisdiction, and the other a parent of the accused.
“These conditions are, frankly, unrealistic and discriminatory, especially for ordinary citizens exercising their right to peacefully demand change.
“This onerous bail not only seeks to financially cripple the families of these young Nigerians but serves as a clear attempt to discourage civic participation by instilling fear among those who dare to voice legitimate grievances.
In response to recent health concerns, the government momentarily withdrew charges against five of the detained minors. This temporary reprieve came after a tragic scene unfolded in court, where several youths fainted due to severe health issues arising from weeks of detention. Witnesses in the courtroom described a distressing sight, with young detainees fainting and lawyers rushing to their aid. Reports indicate that these minors had not eaten for days and showed visible signs of malnourishment and ill-treatment.
This deplorable treatment of minors—some of Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens—is unconscionable and highlights a troubling disregard for human rights and the rule of law. Rather than showing compassion and respect for the rights of the young, the Nigerian judicial system and government have chosen to prioritize punitive measures over the well-being of their citizens. The fainting of minors in court should be a wake-up call to authorities that their policies are not just unjust, but inhumane.
The National Youth Alliance calls for immediate reforms to ensure the protection of young Nigerians’ rights and demands the unconditional release of all detained protesters, particularly minors. We urge the government to address the root causes of civil discontent rather than suppressing the voices of those who seek a better future. Furthermore, we call for an investigation into the treatment of these detainees, ensuring that those responsible for the inhumane conditions faced by these young Nigerians are held accountable.
Our nation’s youth deserve a government that listens, respects, and responds to their concerns—not one that attempts to silence them through intimidation and financial hardship. We stand firmly in solidarity with the detained protesters and their families, and we will continue to advocate for justice, accountability, and meaningful change.
The National Youth Alliance reiterates that civic engagement is a right, not a crime. The government’s actions in this case threaten to undermine the democratic fabric of Nigeria, sending a dangerous message that voices for change will be met with harsh retribution. We call on all Nigerians to stand with us in demanding justice and the protection of our rights.
