73 Minors to be Reintegrated into Society, Says Kano Gov
Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for responding to public calls to release 76 minors detained following the August 2024 protest.
In a statement from his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Governor Yusuf described the President’s decision as a “magnanimous gesture toward the youth of Kano State.” He made the remarks after receiving the minors from Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa.
“I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his compassion in responding to the appeals from various stakeholders within and outside Nigeria. Mr. President has demonstrated remarkable empathy and commitment to justice, and we truly appreciate his gesture,” Governor Yusuf said.
The 76 minors, detained in connection with the protests, will be flown back to Kano for medical evaluations and necessary treatment before being reunited with their families. Governor Yusuf assured that the children would be reintegrated into society through school enrollment and provided opportunities to rebuild their lives.
“In light of the gravity of the charges, we recognize the importance of offering these children a second chance. While their actions were regrettable, their status as minors should not deny them the opportunity to rehabilitate and contribute positively to society,” the governor added.
A team of medical professionals has been designated to assess the minors’ physical and mental health. Following the evaluation, they will be reunited with their families and offered continued support for their reintegration.
During the handover, Vice President Shettima noted that the decision was based on humanitarian concerns. “A total of 119 teenagers were detained in relation to the protests, which caused significant financial losses, including over 3 billion naira. Of these, 76 were from Kano, and 73 have now been handed over to Governor Yusuf,” he said. He also stated that three minors have already been reunited with their families, while 39 others from Kaduna State have been handed over to Governor Uba Sani.
Governor Yusuf reassured the public that his administration would continue to monitor the well-being of the released minors and provide the necessary support for their successful reintegration. 103 Communities Submerged in Rivers State Flooding
