Former Kaduna Central lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, has strongly condemned the arraignment of minors involved in recent protests, describing the development as “most unfortunate and shameful” for Nigeria’s democracy.
The outspoken human rights activist and former senator voiced his disapproval in a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday.
Senator Sani, known for his advocacy on social justice issues, urged the federal government to drop the charges against the young protesters and return them to their respective states. He emphasized that prosecuting minors for expressing their voices in peaceful protests is contrary to the principles of a democratic society.
“The arraignment of those minors for their participation in protest is most unfortunate and shameful for our country’s democracy. The FG should withdraw the charges against them and return them back to their states,” Sani stated.
https://x.com/ShehuSani/status/1852314713507450996?t=hAM-ekZZk6eRWM78QShH5g&s=19
His remarks have amplified ongoing public outcry from human rights groups and concerned citizens, who argue that the government should respect the rights of young Nigerians, particularly in cases involving peaceful protest. The federal government is now facing mounting pressure to reconsider its stance on the matter and take steps toward a resolution that respects the rights of the nation’s youth.