Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections, has fiercely criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the arrest, detention, and arraignment of 76 #EndBadGovernance protesters, including minors. Atiku’s condemnation highlights what he perceives as the federal government’s harsh treatment of dissenters.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Atiku expressed his outrage, stating, “A disturbing video of malnourished children being arraigned before a Federal High Court on orders from the Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government has come to my attention.” He described the scene as reminiscent of a Nazi concentration camp, reflecting the government’s disregard for vulnerable lives, particularly those of children.
Reports indicate that a minor collapsed in the courtroom due to suspected malnourishment and inadequate care. Atiku referred to Tinubu’s actions as “wickedness,” even coining the nickname “T Pain” for the president, highlighting his discontent with the administration’s handling of the protests.
Atiku emphasized the need to protect children’s rights, referencing Section 11 of the Child’s Rights Act. He quoted the Act, asserting, “Every child is entitled to respect for the dignity of his person, and accordingly, no child shall be subjected to physical, mental, or emotional injury, abuse, neglect, or maltreatment.” He stressed that the treatment of these minors contradicts the principles enshrined in this legislation.
The former vice president also criticized the delayed arraignment of the minors, pointing out, “These children are being prosecuted for their alleged involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protests that took place between August 1 and August 10, 2024.” He questioned the conditions they endured during their three-month detention, suggesting they faced significant dehumanization.
Reflecting on Tinubu’s past as an activist, Atiku expressed disappointment, stating, “It is disheartening that a leader who once fought for Nigeria’s democracy and led protests is now demonizing those who peacefully protest against his harsh policies.” He urged the government to reconsider its approach to dissent and uphold democratic values.
In conclusion, Atiku reaffirmed that children affected by government policies have every right to protest peacefully, as guaranteed by the Constitution and the Child Rights Act. “A nation can be judged by how it treats its most vulnerable citizens,” he stated, asserting that the conditions under which these children were brought to court only reinforce the justification for their protests.
