Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has expressed profound gratitude following the release of 76 minors who had been detained in connection with the #EndBadGovernance protest. The minors were apprehended during the protests, and their detention sparked public concern, particularly after it was revealed that they were being held in connection with the demonstrations against government policies.
Governor Yusuf clarified that he had no prior knowledge of the minors’ arrest until their arraignment at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where they were initially brought before the court. Speaking at the Muhammadu Buhari Special Hospital in Kano, where a medical team had been assigned to assess the physical and mental health of the released minors, Yusuf emphasized the importance of their well-being.
“I was not aware of the matter until the children were brought before the court,” Governor Yusuf said, adding that his immediate reaction was to ensure their release and protection. “On learning of the matter, I promptly directed the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to take charge of the case.”
The governor went on to express his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his intervention in securing the release of the children, describing it as a compassionate move that aligned with the values of justice and human rights. “I thank President Tinubu for his timely and compassionate intervention in ensuring the children’s freedom,” Yusuf stated.
Yusuf also expressed his appreciation to the parents of the detained minors for their patience and resilience throughout the process, praising them for their “fervent prayers and demonstrated maturity.” He acknowledged the emotional toll the ordeal had taken on the families and assured them that his administration was committed to supporting the children in their reintegration into society.
“We will do everything within our power to reunite these children with their families and provide them with the necessary support to rebuild their lives,” he affirmed. The governor highlighted the government’s plans to offer minors opportunities to engage in small-scale businesses as a means of empowering them and helping them regain their footing.
In addition to this, Governor Yusuf emphasized the critical role of education in the minors’ futures. “Education remains a cornerstone of our development agenda. These children will be provided the opportunity to return to school and acquire the skills and knowledge needed to contribute meaningfully to the state’s progress,” he pledged.
Yusuf concluded by reiterating his administration’s commitment to supporting the minors as they reintegrate into society, with a focus on education, vocational training, and emotional healing. His comments underscored the importance of providing a nurturing environment for the children to overcome the trauma they had experienced.
The release of the 76 minors marks a significant development in the aftermath of the #EndBadGovernance protests, with Governor Yusuf pledging to continue his efforts to ensure the welfare of all citizens, especially vulnerable groups like the minors.