By Ahmed Liman Kingimi
The Citizens’ Liberty Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association, led by AA Askira, Esq, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully securing the release of six protesters detained during the #EndBadGovernance protest in Maiduguri.
Following their arrest, the Maiduguri High Court granted them bail, marking a step forward in addressing the legal aftermath of the protests.
Barrister Alkali Askira disclosed this while briefing journalists in Maiduguri on Monday.
He explained that detaining people for over 100 days to satisfy a few individuals’ interests is unjust.
“We cannot continue detaining people just like that for over 100 days to satisfy a few individuals’ interests.”
He urged the Borno State Government to release the remaining five detainees, condemning their prolonged detention as illegal.
“We urge Governor Babagana Umara Zulum to listen to reason and release the remaining detainees,” Askira said.
He pointed out that if the government can pardon Boko Haram insurgents who took up arms against it and committed numerous atrocities, then the government should also temper justice with mercy and pardon the young protesters.
He stated that detaining them will ruin their future, as well as Nigeria’s, and have negative repercussions on the general population.
He highlighted the negative impact of detaining the young men, mentioning that one of the detainees is a student who missed university exams and another collapsed during the court proceeding.
He commended the judge’s wisdom and fairness in releasing the six defendants and appealed to the governor to intervene and discontinue the case.
The parents of the six released minors have expressed heartfelt gratitude to Barrister Askira and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for their unwavering support and efforts in securing their children’s freedom.
Adama Dahiru expressed gratitude to God and happiness for witnessing such a joyous day. She appreciated everyone, including the government, for their support.
Halle Dahiru, one of the protesters who was released, explained, “I have learned a valuable lesson. If I see people protesting on television, I will walk away. I want to specifically thank Barrister A. Askira and his team for standing by us and ensuring our release.
Without their support, we might have been back in prison suffering. I am truly grateful.”
Adama Dahiru, the mother of Halle, shed tears of joy as she expressed her happiness. She reiterated their gratitude to God and appreciation for everyone who supported them, including the government.
She specifically mentioned the Citizens’ Liberty Association of the Nigerian Bar Association, led by Barrister A. Askira, for their efforts in securing the release of their children. She prayed for protection against enemies and evil, and for the continued success of humanitarian works carried out by them.
The NBA’s Citizens Liberties Committee will continue to uphold justice and protect the rights of all individuals, particularly vulnerable populations like children in the country.
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