The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has strongly condemned the arrest and trial of minors from Northern Nigeria before a Federal High Court in Abuja on charges of treason and other offenses related to their involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protests.
In a statement released on Sunday, the ACF described the situation as a disgraceful display of excessive and unwarranted government force.
According to the forum’s National Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Muhammad-Babahe, prosecuting these young individuals for participating in protests mirrors the tactics of oppressive regimes that attempt to stifle the voices of citizens through fear and intimidation.
Professor Muhammad-Babahe expressed frustration over the conduct of the trial, particularly the judge’s absence from court and the unreasonable bail terms imposed.
He pointed out that the bail conditions, including demanding sureties who are senior government officials, were unrealistic, especially for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who likely have no ties to Abuja.
“The financial conditions imposed are beyond belief, and the requirement for such high-ranking sureties only adds insult to injury,” the statement emphasized. “This trial, stripped of its formalities, is an affront to common sense and reeks of recklessness and scandal.”
The ACF also noted that the handling of this case has severely damaged President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s image, both domestically and on the global stage, as reflected in international media coverage.
The forum called on the Federal Government to immediately cease the detention and prosecution of these citizens, release the minors, and reunite them with their families.
It further demanded a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the prolonged detention of the minors—over three months, far exceeding the constitutional 24-hour limit.
The ACF also urged the government to provide financial compensation to the detainees, arrange for their medical care, and offer psychological support and counseling.
Additionally, the ACF called on the Federal Government to reassess its approach to handling protests, ensuring it aligns with constitutional rights, principles of good governance, and international standards.
