Rabiu Kwankwaso, former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), criticized the Nigerian government for arraigning minors who participated in the End Bad Governance protest.

Kwankwaso expressed shock and disappointment over the treatment of these minors, one of whom collapsed before the trial began due to apparent malnourishment and neglect.
Kwankwaso said that these children should be in school, not subjected to cruel experiences that violate their human rights and dignity. He pointed out that the arraignment of such a large number of minors is unusual and goes against the principles of protecting vulnerable individuals, particularly children, women, the elderly, and those in need.

“As leaders, it is our duty to protect the most vulnerable among us… And the government should not be at the forefront of this violation,” Kwankwaso stated. He also criticized the stringent bail conditions, calling it absurd that a teenager must source 10 million Naira and provide a grade 15 civil servant for bail.
Kwankwaso cited the Child’s Rights Act 2003, Section 11, which safeguards children from physical, mental, or emotional harm, abuse, neglect, or maltreatment. He urged the authorities to review the charges against the minors, allowing them to return to their families and become responsible citizens.
He also highlighted the government’s failure to address pressing issues such as banditry, kidnapping, Boko Haram, lack of stable electricity, and crippling economic policies. Instead of tackling these challenges, the government is focusing on putting children behind bars, Kwankwaso noted.