Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, announced on Tuesday that President Bola Tinubu has ordered the release of minors previously charged with treason, citing humanitarian grounds.
The minors were granted freedom following a directive by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, who dropped the charges at the President’s request.
Speaking at the Presidential Villa after the release, Shettima noted that, despite clear video and photographic evidence of the actions, including footage uploaded by the protesters themselves, the President had chosen to extend compassion to the youths.
“The President, as Commander in Chief, directed the release of these young men on humanitarian grounds. Despite digital evidence of the incidents, he believes in giving them another chance to grow into responsible citizens contributing positively to Nigeria’s future,” Shettima stated.
Shettima expressed concern over the economic impact of the recent protests, which he said had cost Nigeria more than N300 billion, primarily through damages to private property and business disruptions.
He advised the released youths against being drawn into acts of violence or property destruction in the future. “This is an opportunity, a magnanimous gesture by the President. I urge you to use it wisely and work toward becoming productive members of society,” he said.
Calling for unity among political leaders, Shettima appealed to governors and elected officials across the political spectrum to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of the young men. “What unites us as Nigerians far outweighs what divides us,” he noted. “I ask our governors and representatives to join forces and help reintegrate these youths back into their communities as they take steps toward becoming responsible citizens.”
