Omoyele Sowore, the convener of the #RevolutionNow movement, has vehemently criticized President Bola Tinubu’s government for prosecuting minors allegedly involved in the #EndBadGovernance protests in August.
His condemnation follows reports that some of the detained minors collapsed in court on Friday due to their poor health and malnutrition.
Sowore, a former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, described the government’s treatment of these vulnerable youths as “shameless.” He emphasized that instead of facing trial for treason, the minors deserve access to free education and healthcare.
His outrage reflects growing concerns over the government’s response to dissent and protests.
The #RevolutionNow movement continues to advocate for accountability from those in power, pushing for systemic change in Nigeria.
Recently, Sowore released a list of non-negotiable demands directed at President Tinubu’s administration, which includes the immediate release of all prisoners detained during the protests, as well as all political prisoners.
He also called for a living wage for Nigerian workers and urgent measures to tackle banditry and terrorism.
As of now, over 89 days have passed since the arrests of #EndBadGovernance protesters, including 32 minors, who were taken into custody amid widespread demonstrations against hunger and poor governance.
On Friday, Sowore said, “These are underage kids; the inhuman, barbaric, and unjust regime of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu brought to the Federal High Court, Abuja, today to be tried for treason allegedly for participating in the August 2024 #EndbadgovernanceInNigeria protest.
“These are children who ought to be given free education and healthcare and set on the path of a great future; detained by the Nigeria Police Force for over 89 days and subsequently arraigned before Justice Egwuatu, accused of TREASON.
“NIGERIA is overdue for a #RevolutionNow.”
The incident began when one malnourished minor slumped, followed by four others collapsing in the courtroom, prompting confusion among court officials and lawyers.
Some attorneys and court personnel quickly rushed to assist the distressed youths, temporarily halting proceedings as they were revived and taken to the hospital.
Photos and videos from the scene show the teenagers lying on the courtroom floor, with fellow detainees attempting to help them.
An image captures a lawyer desperately trying to revive one of the protesters.
