Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for responding to public calls by releasing 76 detained minors who had been arrested following the August 2024 protest.
“Mr. President has demonstrated remarkable empathy and commitment to justice, and we truly appreciate his gesture,” Governor Yusuf said. “In light of the gravity of the charges against them, we recognize the importance of offering these children a second chance.”
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his understanding and for giving the minors a second opportunity.
This statement was issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa. In it, Governor Yusuf expressed his deep appreciation for the President’s compassion, describing it as a magnanimous gesture toward the youth of Kano State.
Governor Yusuf made these remarks after receiving the teenagers from Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa. “I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his compassion in responding to appeals from various stakeholders within and outside Nigeria,” Governor Yusuf said.
The 76 minors, who were detained in connection with the August protests, will be flown back to Kano, where they will undergo medical evaluations and receive necessary treatment before being reunited with their families.
Governor Yusuf assured that the children would be reintegrated into society by enrolling them in local schools, providing opportunities for them to rebuild their lives and realize their full potential.
ALSO READ: Congestion: Stop soliciting customers on port access roads, TTP urges truckers
“While their actions were regrettable, their status as minors should not deny them the opportunity to rehabilitate and contribute positively to society,” Governor Yusuf stated.
A team of medical professionals has been designated to assess the physical and mental health of the released minors. Following this, they will be reunited with their families and offered continued support to ensure they can lead normal, productive lives.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, during the handover, emphasized that President Tinubu’s decision to pardon the teenagers was driven by humanitarian concerns.
“A total of 119 teenagers were detained in relation to the protests, which caused significant financial losses, including over 3 billion naira in damages. Of these, 76 were from Kano, and 73 have now been handed over to Governor Yusuf. Three minors have already been reunited with their families, while 39 others from Kaduna State have been handed over to Governor Uba Sani,” the Vice President explained.
Governor Yusuf reassured that his administration would continue to monitor the well-being of the released minors and provide the necessary support to ensure their successful reintegration into society.
