Abuja, Nigeria – Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has ordered the release of all minors detained during the August anti-government protests and the dismissal of treason charges against them. Information Minister Mohammed Idris made the announcement on Monday.
At least 76 individuals, including 30 minors, were charged with treason and inciting a military coup following their participation in the protests, which were sparked by economic hardship and rising inflation. Amnesty International reported that at least 22 people were killed during clashes with security forces.
The arraignment of the minors on Friday sparked widespread public outrage and criticism of the government. In response, President Tinubu intervened, directing the immediate release of the detained children.
The minors had been granted bail on Friday, but their trial was scheduled to begin in January.
The August protests, which took place in major cities like Lagos and Abuja, were a response to President Tinubu’s economic reforms, which, while aimed at stabilizing the economy, have had a significant impact on the cost of living for many Nigerians.
