Kehinde Fajobi
Minister of Women’s Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, voiced deep concern over the detention of 32 children, reportedly arrested on August 3, 2024, during the #EndBadGovernance protests in Kano and Kaduna states.
In a statement on Saturday, Sulaiman-Ibrahim acknowledged the public’s unease about the children’s treatment and rights.
She stated, “The Ministry is taking active steps to address these issues.”
She stressed that every child’s rights, as enshrined in Nigeria’s Constitution, the Child Rights Act, and international treaties, must be respected.
“Every child, regardless of circumstance, is entitled to protection, dignity, and a fair judicial process under the law,” she affirmed.
Demonstrating her commitment, Sulaiman-Ibrahim visited the children in detention late at night, offering comfort, listening to their concerns, and assuring them of her dedication to their welfare.
She also discussed their treatment with facility authorities, aiming to ensure their safety and protection of their rights.
The minister highlighted ongoing communication with the Ministry of Justice, the judiciary, and correctional services, stressing the importance of handling these cases through juvenile courts as mandated by law.
“Communications are underway with relevant authorities…to ensure that these children’s cases are expedited and heard in juvenile courts as mandated by law,” the statement read.
Additionally, she confirmed that child rights advocates are actively monitoring the children’s welfare to prevent mistreatment.
While also noting that plans are underway to collaborate with child protection services to provide psychological counselling, social support, and rehabilitation to aid their reintegration after release.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim added that the President directed the Attorney General to review the minors’ cases swiftly.
“I am confident that justice will prevail in alignment with Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law and child protection principles,” she stated.
Beyond addressing these specific cases, she announced a Whole-of-Society Approach to juvenile delinquency, emphasizing a reform-focused juvenile justice system.
She outlined key initiatives to revise laws on juvenile issues and to foster broad, multi-sectoral engagement, aiming to empower communities and prevent juvenile delinquency nationwide.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim assured Nigerians of the Ministry’s commitment: “Protecting the rights of all children remains a priority, and every effort will be made to guarantee their safety, welfare, and justice.”