In a scathing critique of Nigeria’s justice system, former President of the Nigeria Bar Association, JB Daudu, has denounced the detention and arraignment of children moved from Kano to Abuja, labeling it a “caricature of federalism.”
Daudu argued that the minors should have been charged with lesser offenses, such as conduct likely to cause a breach of peace or unlawful assembly, rather than treason.
“The only thing obscene about the Federal High Court proceedings in Abuja yesterday is the nature of the charge, which is allegedly treason,” Daudu stated.
“Minors, if they are less than 16 years, are usually treated as adults when they are found committing crimes.”
Daudu emphasised that the Attorney General of the Federation has no locus to charge the young men for offenses committed within their respective states.
He contended that the state governments have abdicated their responsibilities to the federal government, neglecting the rights of their citizens.
Daudu, in a statement released to newsmen in Kaduna on Saturday, questioned the necessity of moving the defendants to Abuja, citing it as a failure of the system.
He highlighted the inhumane treatment of the defendants, who have spent over three months in dehumanizing detention conditions.
The defendants have already spent over three months in very dehumanizing detention conditions. This is very inhumane and a breach of their fundamental rights,” Daudu said.
Daudu further urged the Federal Government to discontinue the charges and release those charged with state offenses, providing adequate rehabilitative compensation.
He also advocated for a multi-departmental inquiry into the matter, emphasizing the need for Nigeria to re-engineer its systems to ensure justice and accountability.
“We rightly ought to feel a collective sense of guilt and shame. I call on FGN to discontinue these charges and release all those charged for these state offenses, with adequate rehabilitative compensation paid to them,” Daudu stated.
Daudu’s comments come amidst growing concerns about Nigeria’s justice system and its treatment of minors. The case highlights the need for reform and accountability within the system.