The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has urged for strict punitive measures against those responsible for wrongful actions during the EndBadGovernance protest and called for compensation for its victims.
The caucus also praised President Bola Tinubu for addressing concerns raised by Nigerians and the international community.
In a statement signed by Minority Leader Rep. Kingsley Chinda and other caucus leaders, the caucus expressed appreciation for the President’s response, emphasizing the need for a full investigation into those involved in what they described as “despicable, callous, and inhuman actions” that led to a “national disgrace and global condemnation.”
“Following the immediate release of about 76 young kids charged for terrorism, treason, and arson by the Nigerian Police Force for participating at the EndBadGovernance protest, we commend President Tinubu for his prompt directive,” Chinda stated.
He noted that this directive came shortly after the children’s arraignment, which led the Attorney-General of the Federation to assume control and ultimately dismiss the case.
The caucus called for the investigation, prosecution, and disciplinary actions against individuals and agencies responsible for detaining the children, adding, “Anybody and institution that played roles in the hounding of the children into cells for about 95 days when they should be at their respective schools, trades, and vocations must be brought to book for necessary public umbrage and punitive measures discharged to serve as a deterrent to others.”
Highlighting the potential psychological and health impacts of the detention, the caucus urged the government to provide quality therapy sessions and medical support for the children as they reunite with their families.
“Conscious of the psychological trauma and health challenges the children may have experienced, we appeal that quality reformatory therapy sessions and medical support be advanced to them as they unite with their respective families,” Chinda said.
The statement also called for reparations to help ease the hardships endured by the children and their families during their detention.
“We call for immediate reparation packages to the children and their families to ameliorate the untoward hardship, pain, and emotional torture suffered during the period of unlawful incarceration,” it concluded.
