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Ukorebi Esien | November 3, 2024
ABUJA – The Child Protection Network (CPN) Nigeria has expressed deep concern over the recent arraignment of numerous severely malnourished children at the Federal High Court, Abuja. The minors were charged with treasonable felony and other offenses following their alleged involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protest in August 2024.
In a video that went viral on Friday, November 1, 2024, images of the frail children being brought before the court sparked widespread outrage. The children reportedly endured 93 days in police cells, the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), and Kuje Prisons, which CPN described as "unsanitary, unfriendly, and inhuman" conditions.
Reacting swiftly, the CPN's National Coordinator, in collaboration with the state coordinator of the FCT Chapter, mobilized efforts to address the situation. This included contacting stakeholders within and outside the Network and convening an emergency response team to assess the state of the children and develop a strategic intervention plan.
Following an emergency stakeholders meeting, the CPN issued a statement condemning the arraignment of minors in an open courtroom alongside adults. The organization cited violations of multiple legal provisions, including the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999), the Child Rights Act, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. These frameworks mandate that the trial of child offenders should occur in specialized family courts to safeguard their safety, dignity, and identity.
"The detention and subsequent public arraignment of these minors contravenes both national and international legal standards meant to protect children," stated Barr. Michael Awo Ejeh, Assistant National Secretary of CPN Nigeria.
The Network emphasized its commitment to a coordinated response with civil society organizations to uphold the rights of the affected children and prevent future occurrences. "In the coming days, weeks, and months, we shall pursue comprehensive actions to ensure that the rights of these minors are respected," the statement read.
The CPN reassured its partners and the public of its unwavering dedication to child protection, underscoring that the wellbeing of all children remains its top priority.
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