Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has made a landmark decision in the case of the 76 minors who were arrested for participating in the EndBadGovernance protests in August 2024. In a move that has been praised by many as a step towards justice and fairness, Justice Egwuatu has granted bail to 67 out of the 76 minors who were arraigned before the court.
This decision, which was made on Friday, November 1, has brought a ray of hope and relief to the families of these minors, who have been waiting anxiously for their children to be released. The bail conditions set by Justice Egwuatu require each minor to pay a sum of N10 million and present one surety who must be a civil servant. This decision has been commended by many as it shows a deep understanding of the socio-economic realities of the country and takes into consideration the financial capabilities of the families of these minors.
The EndBadGovernance protests, which rocked the country in August 2024, were a call for a better and more accountable government. It was a peaceful movement led by youths who are tired of the rampant corruption and lack of accountability in the country. However, these minors were caught in the crossfire and were arrested for participating in the protests. Many consider their arrest and detention as a violation of their fundamental human rights.
The decision of Justice Egwuatu to grant bail to these minors is a glimmer of hope for those who have been speaking out against the injustice and oppression in the country. It sends a strong message that the judiciary is committed to upholding justice and protecting the rights of citizens, especially young ones.
Moreover, the fact that five of the minors, aged between 12 and 15, fainted in court further emphasizes the need for their release. These are young children who have been traumatized by their arrest and detention. It is heartening to see that the court has taken into consideration their physical and emotional well-being and has granted them bail.
It is also worth mentioning that this decision by Justice Egwuatu is in line with the provisions of the Child Rights Act of 2003, which states that a child should not be deprived of their liberty except as a measure of last resort and for the shortest appropriate period of time.
The #EndBadGovernance protests have sparked a movement for change and justice in the country, with many youths standing up against the injustices and corruption that have plagued the nation. The decision of Justice Egwuatu to grant bail to these minors is a step towards acknowledging their right to peacefully protest and express their dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs in the country.
In conclusion, the decision of Justice Obiora Egwuatu to grant bail to the 67 minors who were arrested during the EndBadGovernance protests is a victory for justice and a glimmer of hope for the future of Nigeria. It is a reminder that the judiciary is committed to upholding the fundamental rights of citizens and ensuring that justice is served. Let us all continue to stand together in the fight for a better, more accountable government.
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