CISLAC Hails Tinubu’s Order to Free Detained Minors, Calls for Sweeping Reforms in Nigeria’s Justice and Security Sectors
Maryam Aminu
In a pivotal move toward justice and national reconciliation, President Bola Tinubu has directed the release of all minors detained during the #EndBadGovernance protests, marking a significant step forward in Nigeria’s approach to civil liberties.
This decision, disclosed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, signals the President’s commitment to reunite these young detainees with their families and to reevaluate the handling of protest-related arrests.
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Nigeria’s prominent advocacy organization, praised President Tinubu’s directive, commending his readiness to scrutinize the arrests and ensure accountability for any security personnel found guilty of wrongful detention.
CISLAC Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, expressed the organization’s optimism about the President’s initiative but urged Tinubu to extend this amnesty to other detained protesters, a move that could foster greater unity and reflect a responsive, justice-oriented government.
Rafsanjani called for robust reforms in Nigeria’s criminal justice system, with an emphasis on eradicating corruption within the judiciary.
“The integrity of our judicial officers is paramount to restoring public confidence in the rule of law and attracting international investors. Nigeria needs a justice system that exemplifies fairness and impartiality,” Rafsanjani stated.
CISLAC warned that ties between some corrupt public officials and unscrupulous judges are eroding justice and security, demanding an end to such alliances.
The organization also spotlighted Nigeria’s policing challenges, calling for comprehensive reforms in police recruitment, conduct, and welfare.
Citing incidents of police brutality and corruption, CISLAC stressed that a transparent, merit-based recruitment process is essential for building a responsible and citizen-focused police force.
“Reforming the police to serve citizens rather than intimidate them is essential for national security,” CISLAC added, further emphasizing the need for improved police training, adequate welfare, timely promotions, and retirement benefits to strengthen the force.
CISLAC lauded the President’s decision to task the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs with overseeing the reintegration and rehabilitation of the released minors, describing it as a compassionate response to a pressing humanitarian issue.
According to CISLAC, this initiative demonstrates Tinubu’s sensitivity to the welfare of vulnerable populations and his administration’s commitment to addressing their plight.
CISLAC further advocated for the empowerment of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to deliver civic education nationwide, promoting active citizenship and an informed populace.
“Nigeria’s progress hinges on an engaged citizenry aware of their rights and duties,” CISLAC noted.
Recalling Tinubu’s prior promise to engage Nigerian youth on pressing issues like poverty, corruption, and insecurity, CISLAC urged the President to establish a concrete framework for this dialogue.
“The President must surround himself with advisors who genuinely want to address youth discontent and are committed to the cause,” Rafsanjani remarked, cautioning against any undue influence that could undermine this initiative.
As Nigeria stands at a critical juncture, CISLAC reaffirmed its support for genuine government reforms that address citizen concerns for justice and transparency.
The organization called on President Tinubu to continue listening to the voices of Nigerians, assuring the government of its commitment to promoting accountability and good governance.
CISLAC’s proactive stance reflects the nation’s hope for a justice system that upholds citizens’ rights and a police force that protects rather than intimidates. With President Tinubu’s decisive steps, many await further reforms that could reshape Nigeria’s justice and security landscape.
