Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemns President Bola Tinubu's administration for the treatment of minors arrested during the #EndBadGovernance protests. He criticizes their arraignment under dehumanizing conditions, likening the scene to a Nazi concentration camp, and emphasizes the need for children's rights and dignity in Nigeria.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has issued a strong rebuke of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration following the recent arraignment of minors in Abuja. A viral video depicted approximately 20 children, some visibly struggling with their breathing due to suspected malnourishment, lying on the court floor while others were placed in the dock. Their lawyers voiced concerns about the appropriateness of the arraignment given the minors' health conditions.
Atiku likened the troubling scene to a "Nazi concentration camp," highlighting the shocking indifference shown by the government towards vulnerable populations, particularly children. He emphasized that such treatment reflects a low regard for human dignity, stating, "This once again reflects the low premium the current government places on the lives of the vulnerable, especially children."
The minors faced prosecution for their alleged involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protests held in August. Atiku expressed disbelief that they were only being arraigned three months after the protests, questioning the dehumanizing conditions they likely endured while detained. He condemned the administration's approach to peaceful protest, stating, "I find it reprehensible that a man who claims to have fought for Nigeria’s democracy now demonizes those who choose to demonstrate against his harsh policies."
Atiku pointed out that the Child’s Rights Act guarantees children's dignity and their right to peaceful protest, asserting that the treatment of these minors serves as a troubling indicator of the nation’s values. "A nation can be assessed by the way it treats its most vulnerable citizens," he stated. "It is saddening that even underage children are not spared from the wickedness of T-Pain."
This criticism comes just a week after a seemingly amicable encounter between Atiku and President Tinubu during Friday prayers at the National Mosque in Abuja. The stark contrast between their cordial meeting and the current situation reflects the ongoing tensions in Nigeria's political landscape, particularly regarding human rights and governance.
