Minister of Women Affairs calls for justice, protection of detained children
By Kunle Sanni
Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has voiced her concerns regarding the detention of 52 minors, who were reportedly arrested during the #EndBadGovernance protests in Kano and Kaduna states on August 3, 2024.
In a statement released on Saturday, Sulaiman-Ibrahim acknowledged the mounting public outcry over the treatment, safety, and rights of these children, emphasizing that “the Ministry is taking active steps to address these issues.” She added that the government is carefully examining the situation to ensure justice and proper treatment for the children involved.
Reaffirming the Ministry’s dedication to protecting children’s rights as outlined in Nigeria’s Constitution, the Child Rights Act, and international agreements to which Nigeria is a signatory, Sulaiman-Ibrahim stressed that “every child, regardless of circumstance, is entitled to protection, dignity, and a fair judicial process under the law.”
Nationwide debate has arisen over the detentions, with human rights advocates urging authorities to prioritize the children’s welfare and ensure that their legal rights are fully respected.
In response to the widespread public concern, the minister assured citizens of her commitment to a fair judicial process for the detained minors.
Reiterating her dedication, she made a late-night visit to the detention center, where she met with the children, listened to their concerns, and assured them of her commitment to defending their rights.
The Minister has also engaged in active discussions with key agencies, including the Ministry of Justice, the judiciary, and correctional institutions, to expedite the legal process and ensure the cases are addressed in juvenile courts.
The ministry has pledged to collaborate with child rights advocates to safeguard the welfare of each detained child and to prevent mistreatment or discrimination.
In addition, the Ministry of Women Affairs has initiated post-release support plans, including psychological counseling, social services, and educational programs to aid the children’s reintegration into their communities. These efforts aim to help the minors recover from this experience and support them in building positive futures.
