A northern youth group, the National Youth Alliance, has strongly condemned the ongoing treason trial of protesters from the August 2024 #EndBadGovernance, with its President, Aliyu Bin Abbas, describing their treatment as “kidnapping”.
Recall that protesters, mostly minors, are being tried for treason and other offences, with bail set at an unaffordable N10 million each, plus stringent conditions.
Abbas expressed his concerns about the treatment meted out to the minors while speaking with journalists at the Northern Youth Submit in Kaduna on Sunday, where youths from the 19 northern states converged on the Arewa House and unanimously agreed to push for a new Nigeria.
He condemned the arraignment of the minors for allegedly participating in the EndBadGovernance protests, describing it as inhumane and contrary to the Child Rights Act.
“I can describe that as kidnapping because they kidnapped them. Look at the way those boys were looking. They cannot stand on their feet. Then they took them back to jail. It’s high time we speak up,” he said.
Consequently, the NYA boss called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to immediately halt their detention and trial and release the protesters unconditionally unharmed.
He also expressed concern about the state of the country, noting that “We’re not satisfied with the old Nigeria.”
“The situation in the country is unacceptable, and we, the youth, must come together to change the mindset and provide a platform for young Nigerians to participate actively in governance,” he added.
Abbas emphasised the need for unity among youth ahead of the 2027 general elections saying, “We’re a movement that has attracted youth from all political parties, with the sole aim of birthing a Nigeria that will work for all.”
He decried the current state of affairs, where the current crops of politicians he described as “outdated” are out of touch with the hardships faced by Nigerians.
He further emphasised that the current system is not working for the youth and vulnerable populations, citing insecurity and poor governance as major issues.
Abbas also disclosed he had received threats from established politicians but remains committed to driving change through legitimate means.
He said, “We will keep telling them the truth, Nigeria belongs to all of us, particularly the younger generation. It’s time for us to come out and defend democracy.”
