Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the Bola Tinubu-led administration for allegedly arraigning malnourished children before a Federal High Court.
Atiku, in a statement today, described the incident as a “horrible scene reminiscent of a Nazi concentration camp,” criticizing the government’s handling of vulnerable children and accusing it of failing to prioritize the well-being of its most defenseless citizens.
The children reportedly face charges related to their involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protests, which took place from August 1 to August 10, 2024.
With the arraignment occurring nearly three months after the protests, Atiku expressed concerns over the potential mistreatment and dehumanizing conditions the children might have faced during their prolonged detention.
Atiku highlighted he Nigerian Child’s Rights Act, noting that Section 11 of the Act guarantees every child the right to dignity, explicitly prohibiting physical, mental, or emotional abuse, neglect, and maltreatment.
He emphasized that the Act entitles children to protest peacefully and be free from any degrading or inhumane treatment, a protection he says the government has violated.
“It is reprehensible that a man who claims to have fought for Nigeria’s democracy and led protests in the past now demonizes those who choose to demonstrate against his own harsh policies,” Atiku remarked, referencing President Tinubu’s historical involvement in pro-democracy movements.
Atiku criticized the government for failing to protect children.
He argued that the treatment of the children offers a telling assessment of the nation’s approach to its most vulnerable citizens.
