Brekete Family called on "all well-meaning Nigerians and international bodies to join us in demanding the immediate and unconditional release of these children."
Human Rights Radio and Television based in Abuja, Brekete Family, has announced a partial shutdown in protest of the Nigerian government’s detention of underage children.
In a statement on Monday, the award-winning radio and television programme, which focuses on human rights, aired on Human Rights Radio 101.1 in Abuja noted that the decision reflects its deep commitment to defending the rights of the vulnerable and holding authorities accountable.
The protest comes as scores individuals associated with the #EndBadGovernance protests are being tried at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Many of the detained protesters are minors, with their detention and arraignment last Friday sparking outrage and calls on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to release them. At least four of the minors slumped inside the courtroom.
Brekete Family called on "all well-meaning Nigerians and international bodies to join us in demanding the immediate and unconditional release of these children."
The radio and television station emphasised its commitment to solidarity with the voiceless, stating, “Until justice is served, we stand firm in solidarity with the voiceless.”
The #EndBadGovernance protests, which occurred between August 1 and 10, 2024, drew thousands of Nigerians demanding an end to poor governance and corruption.
The government's response was to detain many of the demonstrators, with over 100 protesters reportedly moved from Kano to Abuja.
The ongoing situation highlights the pressing need for accountability and the protection of children's rights in Nigeria.
The statement reads, “Human Rights Radio and Television (Brekete Family) shuts down partially in protest of the Nigerian government's detention of underaged children.
“This decision reflects our deep commitment to defending the rights of the vulnerable and holding authorities accountable.
“We call on all well-meaning Nigerians and international bodies to join us in demanding the immediate and unconditional release of these children. Until justice is served, we stand firm in solidarity with the voiceless.”