A human rights radio and television station based in Abuja, Brekete Family has temporarily shut down its station in protest of the detention of minors involved in the #EndBadGovernance protest.
The minors were arrested during the August 2024 nationwide hunger and hardship protests and have remained in detention. They were arraigned last week at the Federal High Court in Abuja and subsequently granted bail of N10 million each.
In an official statement posted on X on Monday, the prominent media outlet confirmed its partial shutdown in response to the situation.
The statement read, “Human Rights Radio and Television (Brekete Family) shuts down partially in protest of the Nigerian government’s detention of underage children.
“This decision reflects our deep commitment to defending the rights of the vulnerable and holding authorities accountable.
“We call on all well-meaning Nigerians and international bodies to join us in demanding the immediate and unconditional release of these children.
“Until justice is served, we stand firm in solidarity with the voiceless.”
The arrest of the minors has ignited widespread criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, with many, including prominent politicians like Peter Obi and Abubakar Atiku, calling for their release.
Civil society groups and human rights activists have also condemned the actions of the police and government regarding the issue.
On Saturday, the Nigerian Correctional Service denied reports that juvenile defendants from the protests were being held in adult facilities at the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja.