Nigerian Police Face Backlash Over "Scripted" Fainting Incident of Minor Suspects

Nigerian Police Face Backlash Over "Scripted" Fainting Incident of Minor Suspects

A dramatic scene unfolded at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday when six minor suspects, aged 12-15, fainted during their arraignment for participating in the August 2024 End Bad Governance protest. The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has sparked outrage by labeling the incident "deliberate and scripted".

The 75 minors, charged with terrorism, attempted overthrow of the government, and mutiny, have been in detention since August 3rd. The police claim they have followed legal provisions to ensure fairness and accountability, but critics argue that the minors' malnourished state and fainting spell are indicative of inhumane treatment. Many have expressed concern over the minors' welfare, citing their apparent malnourishment and the traumatic experience of being detained and tried .

Nigeria has laws and policies in place to protect the rights and welfare of children, including the Child Rights Act 2003, which was developed after a series of conferences organized by the Nigerian Chapter of The African Network for the Prevention and Protection against Child Abuse and Neglect . The country is also a signatory to international human rights instruments, such as the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, which establishes a Committee of Experts to promote and protect child rights .

The National Action Plan and Protection of Human Rights in Nigeria (2024-2028) aims to promote, protect, and enforce human rights in Nigeria, reinforcing the commitment by the present administration to uphold human rights. However, the government's handling of the protests has raised questions about its commitment to protecting the rights of all citizens, particularly children.

Justice Obiora Egwuatu granted bail to 67 of the minors, with each required to provide a N10 million surety. Those under 15 must provide a civil servant as a surety. The minors face a ten-count charge bordering on alleged treason and conspiracy to commit a felony with intent to destabilize Nigeria.

Critics have condemned the Tinubu administration's handling of the protests, labeling it a "tragic trial of Nigeria's malnourished minors." The incident has sparked widespread criticism, with many calling for the immediate release of the minors and an end to the prosecution.

The National Human Rights Commission has pledged to respond promptly to allegations of human rights violations and promote national values built on respect for human rights .  As the case continues to unfold, concerns about the Nigerian government's commitment to human rights and the welfare of its citizens, particularly children, remain at the forefront of public discourse.