Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has ordered the release of minors arrested during anti-government protests in August.
The announcement was made by Information Minister Mohammed Idris on Monday.
At least 76 people, including 30 minors, had been charged with treason and inciting a military coup following their participation in protests against worsening economic conditions.
The protests, held in several cities including Lagos and Abuja, turned violent and resulted in deadly clashes with security forces.
Human rights group Amnesty International reported that at least 22 people were killed during the August demonstrations.
The protests were sparked by President Tinubu’s economic reforms, which have caused severe inflation and a cost-of-living crisis for many Nigerians.
The arraignment of the minors last week caused a public outcry, as images of the children being paraded in court circulated widely.
In response to the growing criticism, President Tinubu intervened, ordering their immediate release and calling for the charges of treason to be dropped.
“The President has directed that these children, these minors, be released immediately,” Idris confirmed in his statement.
Although the minors were granted bail last Friday, their trial was scheduled to begin in January before Tinubu’s intervention.
The decision to drop charges comes amid growing concerns over the government’s handling of the protests.
Despite the backlash, Tinubu has vowed to continue with his economic reforms, insisting that the changes are necessary to stabilize Nigeria’s economy during this difficult period.
As the nation grapples with economic hardship, the protests have underscored the growing tension between the government and its citizens.