Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory, has issued a powerful condemnation following the recent arraignment of over 100 young boys, aged between 10 and 16, who participated in the #EndBadGovernance protests.
Speaking out strongly, Senator Kingibe expressed deep concern over the treason charges levied against these minors, an offense punishable by death if convicted.
“As a nation, when did we begin turning against our own children—our hope for tomorrow?” asked Senator Kingibe. “How could we lose our compassion to the extent that we drag young children to court for the ‘crime’ of speaking out? This treatment of our youth is not only unjust but a betrayal of our humanity and a direct assault on our future. The dreams of our children are being crushed by oppression. This cannot continue.”
Senator Kingibe further criticized those responsible, emphasizing that such actions are deeply shameful. She argued that society owes children protection not only from external threats but also from unfair treatment within the country. “Our children deserve quality education, healthcare, and safety from abuse—not punishment for exercising their constitutional rights,” she stated. The senator pointed to Nigeria’s Criminal Procedure Act (CPA), which requires that minors be tried in juvenile courts. Despite this, these children were detained for over 85 days in maximum correctional facilities before facing treason charges.
Reflecting on the government’s response to the protests, Senator Kingibe called it a tragic failure of leadership. “Rather than addressing the core issues raised, we are persecuting those who dare to voice them. When did peaceful protest—a constitutional right—become a crime in Nigeria?”
Videos circulating on social media, showing malnourished children fainting, crying, and suffering, have brought international criticism. Senator Kingibe warned that this mistreatment has not only damaged Nigeria’s reputation but has also raised questions about its commitment to protecting citizens. She asked, “If we cannot protect our own children, how do we expect to convince foreign investors that Nigeria is a safe place?”
In her statement, Senator Kingibe urgently called upon relevant government bodies—including the Ministry of Women Affairs, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the Ministry of Justice, the Chief Justice of the Federation, the Human Rights Commission, and all human rights advocates—to act swiftly for the immediate and unconditional release of these minors. She appealed to mothers and women across Nigeria to join her in a national protest to end the abuse of children.
“This is not the Nigeria we dreamed of,” she concluded. “Our future cannot be sacrificed in silence.”
