The Kaduna State Government has gifted mobile phones and N100,000 each to 39 #EndBadGovernance protesters who were recently released from detention.
The detainees had been held for three months after allegedly participating in protests against poor governance in Nigeria.
Among the detainees were minors, who, like the others, were only released after a Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed treason charges against them.
Justice Obiora Egwuatu, the presiding judge, ordered the release of the protesters after the Attorney General of the Federation’s office applied to drop the charges.
The dismissal of the case followed public outrage over the treatment of the protesters, especially the minors, and criticism both nationally and internationally.
The protesters’ release brought relief to many, as they had endured nearly 90 days in custody amid challenging conditions.
Sani Uba’s administration took this step as a goodwill gesture toward the young detainees.
In addition to the phones and cash, the governor’s office promised additional support to help the young people rebuild their lives.
Abdullahi Yunus, the Special Adviser on New Media to the Kaduna State Governor, confirmed the gifts in a statement on Wednesday.
Yunus quoted the Secretary to the Kaduna State Government, Dr. Abdulkadir Muazu, who outlined further support planned for the former detainees.
“The governor promised that some of them will be given start-up capital to commence trading,” Muazu stated.
“Others will be taught skills, and some will be given employment opportunities,” he added.
Both Christian and Islamic leaders were also involved, offering counsel and guidance to the detainees.
Religious leaders advised the young people to avoid negative influences and embrace the positive teachings of their faiths.
The minors among them had spent three months in custody, an experience that drew intense criticism from human rights advocates.
Their lawyer, Marshal Abubakar, expressed relief and gratitude for their release, stating that the government had a duty to support these young people.
According to Abubakar, the government should also provide free education for the detained minors up to the university level.
He emphasized the need for the government to rehabilitate the young people, helping them reintegrate into society.
In his statement, Yunus explained that the detainees received new phones because their own devices had been lost during their time in custody.
“The governor has graciously given each of them N100,000 as a measure of goodwill,” Yunus said.
The funds are expected to support the former detainees as they return to their homes and begin a new chapter.
Following their release, the detainees were transported back to their respective homes across Kaduna and Kano States.
This case has sparked discussions on the treatment of protestors and the rights of young people involved in political movements.
Many activists continue to call for reforms, urging the government to respect the rights of young people who speak out against governance issues.
