President Tinubu’s Children, Grandchildren motivated his release of minors – Crime Channels

The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, has explained the rationale behind President Bola Tinubu’s decision to order the release of the 32 minors who were arraigned in connection with the recent nationwide EndBadGovernance protests.

Fagbemi emphasised that the president’s decision was influenced by his personal understanding as a father and grandfather, which led him to order that the charges against the minors be dropped.

In a press briefing in Abuja, Fagbemi further stated that there were discussions about the possibility of trying the minors in a family court, although he clarified that Nigerian law does not specifically prohibit the trial of minors.

The 32 minors were among 72 individuals arrested during the protests, which were centered around calls for better governance.

They had been charged with treason and brought before a Federal High Court in Abuja.

However, following public outcry, the government decided to withdraw the charges against the minors, signaling a shift in approach due to widespread concerns.

Fagbemi said: “No law in this country says a minor cannot be tried, and I have also heard suggestions that they should go to a family court.

“But the President said, despite all this, ‘I have children, grandchildren,’ and that motivated his passion to release them.”