The EndBadGovernance movement in August 2023 exposed a deeply fractured social contract in Nigeria, a nation grappling with crippling economic hardship and persistent governance failures. The protests, fueled by a collective yearning for change, were met with a heavy-handed response from the authorities, epitomized by the arrest of 76 individuals, including 30 minors, on charges as serious as treason and inciting a military coup. This essay critically examines the arrest and detention of these minors, exposing the dangers of conflating legitimate dissent with criminal intent, and the need for accountability for the state’s actions.
By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman
The arrest and arraignment of minors on charges of treason and inciting mutiny represent a blatant attempt to silence dissent and criminalize peaceful protest. Accusing young individuals, barely old enough to vote, of actively plotting to overthrow the government is not only absurd but also deeply concerning. The severity of the charges, coupled with the prolonged detention, speaks volumes about the state’s willingness to employ draconian measures to quell legitimate grievances. This blatant disregard for due process and the right to freedom of expression raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to upholding democratic values and the rule of law.
The physical and psychological toll on the detained minors cannot be ignored. The emotional distress witnessed during their arraignment, with four minors collapsing in court, is a stark reminder of the trauma they have endured. Their detention, coupled with the gravity of the accusations leveled against them, has undoubtedly cast a dark shadow over their lives, potentially impacting their future prospects and well-being. This situation highlights the disproportionate burden placed on vulnerable individuals, who are often the most susceptible to abuse of power.
The President’s directive to release the minors, while seemingly a positive step, remains insufficient. It fails to address the fundamental injustice of their detention and the severe charges they faced. While the release may alleviate immediate concerns, it does little to address the systemic issues that underpinned their arrest. It is crucial to acknowledge the grave violation of their rights and demand accountability for the actions of the authorities. This should include a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the arrests and the potential for bias or manipulation within the legal system. Furthermore, the government must implement concrete measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future, ensuring that the right to peaceful protest is protected and that the legal system operates fairly and equitably.
The arrests of minors during the EndBadGovernance protests are symptomatic of a broader pattern of repression in Nigeria, where dissent is often met with hostility and violence. The government’s response to the protests highlights the dangers of conflating legitimate grievances with criminal intent. It is imperative that the state recognizes the crucial role of peaceful dissent in a healthy democracy. Failing to address these concerns will only further erode public trust and deepen the existing social fissures.
The EndBadGovernance protests were a manifestation of the widespread discontent in Nigeria. They were a call for systemic change, addressing corruption, economic inequality, and ineffective governance. While the protests were ultimately dispersed, the underlying grievances remain. Addressing these concerns requires a shift in approach from the authorities. Instead of resorting to intimidation and repression, the government should engage in constructive dialogue with the people, fostering an environment of open communication and genuine reform. This includes addressing the systemic root causes of the discontent, such as economic inequality and inadequate public service delivery.
The release of the minors, while a necessary step, should not be viewed as a final solution. It is a starting point for a broader dialogue on the need for respect for human rights, democratic principles, and the rule of law. It is crucial to ensure that the arrests of these minors do not become a cautionary tale, deterring future generations from exercising their right to dissent. Instead, they should serve as a catalyst for positive change, prompting the government to actively address the systemic issues that drive social unrest and empower citizens to participate constructively in the shaping of their future.
The EndBadGovernance protests, despite the harsh response they received, serve as a stark reminder of the power of public voice and the need for accountability in governance. The arrest of minors is a stain on Nigeria’s democratic fabric, highlighting the need for a paradigm shift in the way the state engages with its citizens. By acknowledging the injustices perpetrated against these young individuals, holding the perpetrators accountable, and implementing concrete measures to protect fundamental rights, Nigeria can begin to rebuild trust and pave the way for a more inclusive and just future.
