The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has commended President Bola Tinubu for instructing Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) to ensure the immediate release of all minors detained during the #EndBadGovernance protests across Nigeria.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced this directive, which confirmed the President’s commitment to reuniting these minors with their families.
CISLAC welcomed the President’s decision, praising his willingness to investigate the circumstances leading to the arrests and hold responsible security personnel accountable. Additionally, CISLAC has urged President Tinubu to extend this directive to other detained protesters, fostering greater national unity and justice and demonstrating a government open to addressing citizens’ grievances.
In a statement signed by CISLAC Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC called for two major reforms to Nigeria’s criminal justice system. Firstly, CISLAC emphasized the need for comprehensive judicial reform, particularly targeting corruption within the judiciary. “To restore hope and stability in our country, we must ensure that only judges with integrity serve on our benches,” CISLAC stated. “A reformed judiciary will not only strengthen the rule of law and democracy but also increase confidence among international investors, who seek a transparent and fair justice system,” CISLAC noted that the involvement of corrupt public officials and election riggers with some judges to undermine justice poses a significant threat to the country.
CISLAC also underscored the importance of police reform, particularly in recruitment and service deployment. Noting issues of police misconduct, including instances of brutality and corruption, the organization stressed that only through a merit-based and transparent recruitment process can Nigeria build a police force that serves and protects the public responsibly. “By rooting out corrupt elements within the police, we can foster a positive partnership between citizens and the police, which is essential for national security,” CISLAC added. Additionally, CISLAC highlighted the need for improved police welfare, training, due promotions, and retirement benefits.
Furthermore, CISLAC praised the directive assigning the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to oversee the rehabilitation and safe return of the minors to their families. According to CISLAC, this move reflects the President’s commitment to addressing humanitarian issues with compassion.
CISLAC also encouraged the empowerment of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to actively engage Nigerians, providing civic education and promoting active citizenship. “An informed and engaged citizenry is crucial for national progress,” CISLAC stated.
Finally, CISLAC expressed optimism about the President’s earlier pledge to establish a dialogue with Nigerian youth to address their concerns about poverty, corruption, insecurity, and limited opportunities—a commitment made during the #EndBadGovernance protests. CISLAC urged the President to move forward by setting concrete structures for this dialogue.
“The President must surround himself with reliable, impartial advisors to ensure that this initiative genuinely addresses the root causes of youth discontent and prevents any sycophants from derailing the purpose,” CISLAC added.
CISLAC reaffirms its support for any government efforts aimed at genuine reform and improved governance, urging the President to continue listening to the people and addressing their demands for justice and accountability.
