The Nigerian Correctional Service firmly denied claims that juvenile #EndBadGovernance protesters were held in adult cells at Kuje Centre. Allegations emerged after 76 protesters’ arraignment, where Justice Obiora Egwuatu ordered minors to borstal facilities. He instructed adults to be remanded in standard cells until bail was granted. NCoS assured the public of adherence to legal guidelines for juvenile detainees. According to NCoS spokesperson Umar Abubakar, the service follows strict guidelines to ensure minors are separated from adult inmates.
Juveniles Allegedly Misdirected to Adult Cells
After the arraignment, reports claimed Kuje Correctional Centre lacked borstal accommodations, raising concerns about juveniles in adult cells. NCoS quickly clarified these reports were misleading. Abubakar stressed that the Nigerian Correctional Service Act of 2019 requires minors’ separation from adults. Facility heads may refuse new intakes if capacity is exceeded.
Adherence to Juvenile Detention Standards
The NCoS spokesman reiterated that the service operates in line with international best practices, specifically the United Nations Minimum Standards for the Treatment of Juvenile Offenders. He assured the public that no minors were detained in adult cells and urged them to disregard the misinformation. “Our duty is to uphold professionalism and human rights,” he stated, affirming the NCoS’s commitment to juvenile welfare.
Call to Dismiss Misinformation
The NCoS has urged the public to reject inaccurate reports concerning juvenile detention practices. Abubakar highlighted that no juveniles involved in the #EndBadGovernance protests were held in adult facilities. He explained that the service is committed to ensuring safe and appropriate accommodations for all detainees, adhering strictly to established laws and global standards.
Arraignment of Young Protesters Sparks Public Concern
The juvenile protesters, aged between 12 and 15, were initially detained in August and faced multiple serious charges, including terrorism and an alleged attempt to overthrow the government. During their arraignment, Justice Egwuatu granted bail to 67 of the minors with conditions set at ₦10 million each. Reports indicate some minors fainted during the hearing due to the stress of prolonged detention and the intensity of charges against them.
NCoS Affirms Dedication to Juvenile Rights
In light of these events, NCoS has affirmed its dedication to respecting juvenile rights under Nigerian and international law. The service assured the public that it remains vigilant in upholding the welfare of minors and is resolute in preventing future misunderstandings concerning juvenile detention practices.
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