As President Bola Tinubu continue to receive backlash for the arraignment of teenagers arrested in the wake of the #EndBadGovernace, the Inspector General of Police argued Saturday that the kids were faking when some of them fainted at the court premises.
The Children between the ages of 14-17 have been in detention since August, they appeared gaunt and malnourished when they made a court appearance on Friday. Some of them passed out while their plea was being taken.
“Six of the suspects rush out and fainted, drawing media attention in a deliberate and scripted manner to attract negative attention,” IGP Kayode Egbetokun said in a statement.
“Medical aid was promptly provided to these individuals, demonstrating the Police Force’s commitment to the welfare of those in its custody, irrespective of the allegations they face.”
He argued that the kids have reached the age of criminal responsibility.
“While committed to upholding justice, the 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 offences. 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.”
But former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwanso faulted the arguement.
“These children, who are obviously malnourished and need medical attention have been subjected to a cruel experience when they should be in school,” Kwankwaso, wrote on X.
“The arraignment of such [a] number of minors in their states is highly unusual and negates every tenet of the protection of human rights and dignity,” he added.
Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed, condemned the trial of the teenagers.
“How do you expect a person who is unable to feed himself three square meals a day to bail himself in the sum of ₦10 million as surety?” Mohammed said in a facebook post
“Looking dejected, hungry, lack of balanced diet food, the vividly looking protest suspects clearly indicate how they were being badly treated and humiliated while in detention in police cells,”
