The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has called for compensation for minors detained by the police for three months over alleged terrorism, felony, and arson charges linked to their participation in the #EndBadGovernance protest.
In a statement issued on Friday, the caucus demanded a full investigation, prosecution, and punishment of all individuals and government agencies responsible for the wrongful detention of these minors and other youth involved in the August protest. The statement was signed by Minority Leader Rep. Kingsley Chinda, Minority Whip Dr. Ali Isa J.C., Deputy Minority Leader R. Aliyu Madaki, and Deputy Minority Whip George Ozodinobi.
The lawmakers expressed concern over the incident, which has sparked both national outrage and international concern, emphasizing the need for accountability and compassionate support for the affected minors. They commended President Tinubu for releasing the detained protesters but called for a thorough investigation into those responsible for the youths’ detention, labeling the actions as “despicable, callous, and inhumane.”
The caucus further argued that those involved in detaining the youths for 95 days—time that could have been spent on education or personal development—must be held accountable, warning that failure to do so would send a dangerous message.
Highlighting the psychological and physical toll on the youths during their detention, the Minority Caucus called for therapeutic and medical support to assist them in reintegrating with their families. Additionally, they advocated for reparation packages to help alleviate the emotional distress and hardship endured by the youths and their families during the period of unlawful incarceration.
The caucus urged that quality therapy and medical support be provided as the minors return to their families, and reparation packages be delivered promptly to mitigate the suffering they have faced.
