#EndBadGovernance: CSO demands separate detention, justice for detained minors

A civil society organization, Women Aid Collective Nigeria, is calling on the Federal Government to prioritize alternative measures for minors in conflict with the law, advocating for their separation from adult detainees in correctional facilities.

The group emphasized that detaining and prosecuting minors should be considered only as a last resort. When necessary, they urged that cases involving young offenders be handled by a juvenile court.

This appeal follows the arraignment of 76 #EndBadGovernance demonstrators, including minors, by Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun on Friday in Abuja before Justice Obiora Egwuatu.

Over the weekend, disturbing videos of malnourished minors led to public outcry, prompting several civil society organizations to demand their immediate release from custody.

In a statement released on Sunday, Prof. Joy Ezeilo, the Executive Director of WACOL, highlighted that the recent treatment of minors undermines the integrity of Nigeria’s justice system and contravenes various laws protecting children’s rights at state, national, regional, and international levels.

“Children’s rights are fundamental human rights, and it is imperative that the rights of Nigerian children are upheld. Those who find themselves in legal trouble should not be subjected to traditional judicial processes,” she stated. “The recent actions taken against minors are a significant breach of legal standards relating to children’s rights.”

Ezeilo also stressed the need for minors in detention to be kept apart from adults, with their identities and privacy safeguarded. “Detention and trial must be the absolute last options, and if necessary, proceedings should be conducted in a Juvenile Court,” she added.

She further emphasized that the juvenile justice system should be designed to uphold the dignity of young individuals, considering their developmental needs and focusing on their rehabilitation into society.

Ezeilo condemned the treatment of children charged with serious offenses like mutiny and treason, describing it as a disgrace to the nation. “This unacceptable practice of allowing children to suffer from malnutrition while facing serious charges must end. We demand accountability for those who disregard established laws. Prosecutors must act justly and uphold the principles of justice,” she concluded.