Vice-President Kashim Shettima says President Bola Tinubu ordered the release of the detained #EndBadGovernance protesters on humanitarian grounds.
On Monday, Tinubu directed that all minors arrested over the #EndBadGovernance protest be released immediately.
Earlier today, Obiora Egwuatu, the presiding judge of a federal high court in Abuja, struck out the suit against 119 protesters charged over the protest, following an application by M.D. Abubakar, counsel to the attorney-general of the federation (AGF).
At the reception for the released protesters after the court session, Shettima said the president aims to give the protesters another chance at becoming responsible citizens.
Advertisement
“The president and commander in chief of the armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, instructed the release of the suspects on humanitarian grounds, despite incontrovertible digital video and photographic evidence of the perpetration and actions, some of which were uploaded by the actors themselves,” the vice-president said.
“Regarding this evidence, the president, as the father of the nation, has decided to give these young men another chance at becoming responsible citizens who will make a positive impact in a drive for a better Nigeria.
“I would like to admonish you, young men, not to allow yourselves to be used to perpetrate violence and destroy public and private property.
Advertisement
“Over N300 billion was lost in the protests, consisting mainly of private properties and loss of business.
“I will urge you; I will advise you; you are our children to use the opportunity of the president’s magnanimous gesture in ensuring that you overcome and become responsible citizens who will contribute to the growth of society.”
Abba Yusuf, governor of Kano, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the federal government for the compassionate decision regarding the release of the protesters.
“What happened today will be written in gold. The president has shown his compassion and humility. He has demonstrated that you (protesters) are also his children,” Yusuf said.
Advertisement
“Apart from his compassion, it was also a result of appeals by persistent Nigerians, well-meaning Nigerians, CSOs, the press, and the NBA. Everybody ensured that you were free.”
Add a comment
