The Nigeria Police Force through its spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi has released a press statement urging the general public not to allow their emotions speak where justice should prevail.
The statement is coming out after public outrage against the ill treatment of the malnourished and hungry looking Endbadgovernance protesters arraigned in Abuja Federal High court on the 1st of November who have been in detention for the past three months.
A viral video of the accused had circulated on the social media on Friday showing hungry looking minors in court scrambling for biscuits and water
76 defendants, of which 26 were between 14 and 17 years of age, looking unkempt and malnourished, and ill-treated were arrested at the August 1st protest where Nigerians citizens intended to voice out their displeasure at the hardship hitting the country under the present administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, had alleged that the defendants, between July 31 and August 5, conspired with a 70-year-old British national, Andrew Martin Wayne, to destabilise Nigeria and cause breakdown of law and order and calling for a military takeover of government.
In the charges signed by Simon Lough, a Deputy Commissioner of Police, the prosecution further alleged that the defendants incited the military, Russian and other Western governments to topple the democratically elected government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, “using Russian flags and those of other countries in a violent protest”.
The prosecution further alleged that the defendants, without permission, violently armed themselves with dangerous weapons, with which “they attacked and killed some security officers in their lawful duty while calling for the suspension of democracy and removal of the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
In a sudden turn of events, as proceedings commenced, four of the children suddenly collapsed and were rushed out of the courtroom, forcing the presiding judge, Justice Obiora Egwuatu to temporarily suspend proceedings.
The Force PRO through the press released stated that: “NPF has rigorously adhered to legal provisions to ensure fairness and accountability under the rule of law. The suspects were initially presented in court, where they were formally charged, and a remand order was issued by the court. Throughout this process, the Police have worked to balance justice with compassion, ensuring that each suspect’s basic rights and privileges are respected, including access to medical care and other necessary provisions.”
Adejobi went further to state that the generosity of the police shown in its effort to provide medical care to the suspects that fainted in court, proving that it showcase “Police Force’s commitment to the welfare of those in its custody, irrespective of the allegations they face.”
Nigerians are angry at the treatment of these protesters and the injustice suffered in detention, especially the minors, speaking against such amongst others are: The former president of Nigeria Atiku Abubakar, former governor of Anambra state, Peter Obi, former minister of education, Oby Ezekwesili, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, Arewa group, as they bore down heavily on the government, calling out for outright release of the protesters and criticized same for inhuman treatment.
Atiku stated that the video of the malnourished defendants was disturbing, and described it as reminiscent of a Nazi concentration camp.
“The children are being prosecuted for their alleged role in the #EndBadGovernance protests, which took place between August 1 and August 10, 2024. If they are just being arraigned three months later, one can only imagine the sort of dehumanising conditions they have been subjected to all this while,” he stated.
Obi condemned poor handling of the minors “for protesting against bad governance that was directly affecting their livelihoods and which our constitution under a democratic dispensation guarantees them.
“Curiously, most of the people in government today leveraged this aspect of the constitution, standing as champions of good governance while in opposition.
Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, urged the Inspector General of Police to investigate the alleged maltreatment of underaged children who appeared in court for their involvement in the August EndBadGovernace protests. 
In a letter published on his X handle, Pantami, said, “As a compassionate society, it is our collective duty to protect the most vulnerable among us, particularly children. Ensuring their safety, well-being, and justice is not only a moral obligation but also a fundamental human right.” 
However the NPF argued that the protesters were charged for terrorism, arson and treasonable felony, which it described as serious allegations and threats to national security.
NPF went further to explain that irrespective of your age, as long as a crime is committed, then the law must take place: “Nigeria Police Force remains sensitive to the rights of all individuals, including young persons. Under Nigerian law, individuals who have reached the age of criminal responsibility are answerable for their actions, regardless of their age. This principle aligns with global practices, where accountability is upheld for young individuals who commit serious offenses.
“As seen in other jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, age does not exempt individuals from facing legal consequences. However, each case is approached with empathy and in accordance with human rights standards.” He defended.
Urging the public to suppress their emotion and be unbiased, Adejobi emphasized; “The NPF acknowledges public interest in this case and assures the public that our officers will maintain professionalism throughout the legal process. The public is encouraged to view this case without undue bias, as the Force remains focused on a transparent pursuit of justice.
The Nigeria Police Force is committed to aligning with best practices, upholding both the rule of law and respect for human dignity.” He added.

By Adeoye Olorunseun Elizabeth
adeoye.o@thesubstancenews.com
info@thesubstancenews.com