The Nigeria Police Force has clarified that individuals over the age of seven can legally be charged to court if found guilty of an offense, according to Assistant Commissioner of Police and spokesperson for the force, Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
In a recent interview with Channels TV, Adejobi addressed the public criticism following the arraignment of 67 minors in Abuja, who were charged with alleged treason and destruction of public property during the “End Bad Governance” protest.
Adejobi stated, “Those that are not criminally liable under the law are those below the age of seven.
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Once you are more than seven, you can be charged to court. The only thing is that you have to follow certain procedures.”
He explained that the youngest individual among the 67 charged was 13, adding, “The fact that you are a 13-year-old doesn’t mean you cannot be charged to court.
Under the Children and Young Persons Act, we can still charge you to court.”
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The police, acting on behalf of the Federal Government, have proceeded with charges, with Adejobi noting, “The police has taken the bull by the horns.”
He emphasized that appropriate legal protocols were followed in bringing the minors to court, ensuring adherence to procedural standards set for cases involving young persons.
The decision has sparked nationwide debate on the legal and ethical implications of prosecuting minors, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the government’s handling of youth involvement in protests and social justice movements.