Twenty-nine children in Nigeria are at risk of facing the death penalty after being charged for participating in a protest against the country's severe cost-of-living crisis. The minors, aged between 14 and 17, were among 76 protesters charged with offenses including treason, destruction of property, public disturbance, and mutiny.
Recent mass protests in Nigeria have been fueled by frustration over the cost-of-living crisis, with demands for better opportunities and jobs for young people. In a tragic turn of events, four of the children collapsed in court due to exhaustion before they could even enter a plea.
While the death penalty exists in Nigeria, no executions have taken place since 2016. Legal experts argue that subjecting minors to criminal proceedings and potential death sentences goes against the Child Rights Act, which prohibits such actions.
The court granted bail of 10 million naira ($5,900) to each defendant, but stringent conditions have made it challenging for them to meet the requirements. The prolonged detention of these children without adequate food has raised concerns about their well-being and rights.
Critics, including civil society organizations and activists, have condemned the government's decision to prosecute children, emphasizing that authorities should focus on education and welfare rather than punishment. Nigeria, despite being a major oil producer, grapples with widespread poverty, corruption, and a lack of job opportunities.
The country's political elite, accused of corruption, enjoy lavish lifestyles while the general population struggles with economic hardships. Nigeria's population, one of the largest in Africa, faces acute food insecurity, high inflation rates, and a weakening currency.
The United Nations has classified Nigeria as a 'hotspot of very high concern' due to the critical levels of acute food insecurity affecting a significant portion of the population. The situation underscores the urgent need for sustainable solutions to address the socio-economic challenges facing Nigeria.
