Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State on Thursday reunited 76 minors, previously arrested in connection with the alleged #EndBadGovernance protests, with their parents.
The Governor, represented by his Chief of Staff, Shehu Wada Sagagi, handed over the minors after they had undergone a week-long rehabilitation at the Muhammadu Buhari Specialist Hospital in Kano. The minors were initially detained in Abuja before their release.
Governor Yusuf warned against violent protests, emphasizing that the state government would not tolerate such actions.
"We are not supporting any person to participate in violent protests. The state government will not condone that," he stated.
He lamented the devastating impact of the protest in Kano, attributing it to a lack of education.
"Throughout the country, we have never seen a protest as devastating as what happened in Kano. It is solely due to a lack of education. Both the state and federal governments must wake up to ensure our citizens are educated and gainfully employed," Yusuf said.
He further highlighted the administration's prioritization of education, noting that Kano has allocated 31% of its budget to the sector, surpassing the United Nations' recommended 25%.
"You, as parents, must support us in teaching your children to be responsible. I also warn the parents' association that the state government will not condone using the association to solicit funds. All donations gathered will be distributed here in the presence of government representatives," he added.
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Protest Not a Crime, But Disruption Is - Rights Lawyer
Speaking at the event, Barrister Hamza Nuhu, the leader of the human rights lawyers team, reminded attendees that protests are legal but cautioned against disruption and violence.
"Legally, protest is not a crime. However, it becomes a crime when it involves disruption. I urge the teenagers to embrace peace-building efforts," he said.
We Were Wrongly Arrested - Minor
Abba Usman, a minor speaking on behalf of the teenagers, claimed they were unjustly detained, asserting that none of them engaged in vandalism or violent acts.
"None of us was arrested with a broomstick or caught vandalizing streetlights," he said.
Parents Commend Government
Nura Ahmad, speaking on behalf of the parents, expressed gratitude to the federal and state governments as well as stakeholders for their efforts in securing the minors' release, rehabilitation, and reunion with their families.
The event emphasized the importance of peaceful advocacy and responsible citizenship among youths in Kano State.
