Labour Party leader and 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi has strongly denounced the poor handling of protesters, including minors, brought to court under degrading conditions. Obi emphasized that the constitution allows people to protest against bad governance affecting their livelihood.

Obi expressed outrage after watching a disturbing video showing 124 protesters, including minors, appearing in court to secure enforcement of their fundamental rights. The footage revealed minors too weak to stand, fainting from exhaustion and lack of nourishment, and visibly malnourished and starved.

“The offense alleged against these suspects, including minors, is protesting against bad governance that was directly affecting their livelihood, which our constitution under a democratic dispensation guarantees them,” Obi stated. He noted that most government officials today once championed good governance while in opposition.

Obi pointed out that suspects deserve dignity, even in correctional homes, as human beings. He appreciated the presiding judge for halting the trial, saving the country from further global embarrassment.

Obi called on relevant authorities, including the Minister of Justice, Attorney General, Police, DSS, and National Human Rights Commission, to thoroughly investigate the inhumane treatment of minors to prevent future incidents. This incident has sparked concerns about the government’s handling of protests and human rights.

“The reason why we should all be concerned about a situation like this is because we are part of a global community where human dignity should be respected,” Obi emphasized. His condemnation highlights the ongoing tensions between the government and protesters, with many criticizing the authorities’ heavy-handed approach.

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