Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for responding to public calls and releasing 76 detained minors, who had been arrested following the August 2024 protest.
In a statement issued by governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, governor Yusuf expressed his deep appreciation for the President’s compassion, which he described as a magnanimous gesture toward the youth of Kano State.
The governor made these remarks after receiving the teenagers from Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa.
Governor Yusuf thanked President Tinubu for his understanding and for granting the minors a second chance.
“I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his compassion in responding to the appeals from various stakeholders within and outside Nigeria.
“Mr. President has demonstrated remarkable empathy and commitment to justice, and we truly appreciate his gesture,” Governor Yusuf said.
The 76 minors, who had been detained in connection with the August protests, will be flown back to Kano where they will undergo a medical evaluation and receive necessary treatment before being reunited with their families.
Governor Yusuf assured that the children would be reintegrated into society through enrollment in local schools, providing them with opportunities to rebuild their lives and realize their full potential.
“In light of the gravity of the charges against them, we recognize the importance of offering these children a second chance.”
“While their actions were regrettable, their status as minors should not deny them the opportunity to rehabilitate and contribute positively to society,” said Governor Yusuf.
A team of medical professionals has been designated to assess the physical and mental health of the released minors.
Following this, they will be reunited with their families and offered continued support to ensure they can live normal, productive lives.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, during the handover, emphasized that President Tinubu’s decision to pardon the teenagers was driven by humanitarian concerns.
“A total of 119 teenagers were detained in relation to the protests that caused significant financial loss, including over 3 billion naira. Of these, 76 were from Kano, and 73 have now been handed over to Governor Yusuf.
Three minors have already been reunited with their families, while 39 others from Kaduna State have been handed over to Governor Uba Sani,” the Vice President explained.
Governor Yusuf reassured that his administration would continue to monitor the well-being of the released minors and provide the necessary support to ensure their successful reintegration into society.