Minna — Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, has requested the release of 25 Nigerians who were arrested by the police for participating in a protest against the high cost of food in Minna, the state capital.
The protest, which took place on Monday, involved 22 men and 3 women from Minna who were expressing their frustration with the economic difficulties faced by the nation.
The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Binta Mamman, explained during a press conference in Minna that the arrest was a result of a misunderstanding.
“The state government has directed the release of Aisha Jibrin and 24 others arrested by the police for leading the protest. They have been released and reunited with their families,’’ she said.
The commissioner expressed his apologies to the suspects, their families, and the people of the state for the arrest.
Mamman clarified that the police took action against the protesters after their protest became violent, leading to the damage of both public and private property.
“They did not seek the permission of the police before embarking on the protest,” Mamman stated.
The suspects were released after a careful examination of the circumstances surrounding their arrest, according to her explanation.
“It was determined that there was a misunderstanding, and they have been exonerated of any wrong doing,’’ she said.
The commissioner reassured the state’s residents that the government is dedicated to protecting the rights and freedom of all citizens.
“We understand the importance of ensuring that justice is served and we are dedicated to maintain the highest standard of fairness and transparency in all legal matters,’’ she stressed.
The commissioner acknowledged that the government is aware of the difficulties people are facing due to the economic downturn.
She emphasized that violent protests are not the answer, but rather engaging in meaningful discussions to alleviate the people’s suffering is the right approach.
“We are part of the society; so we know what is happening and how the people feel.
“We know that our people are hungry and there is hardship in the land and that is why the government is working hard to provide palliatives to cushion the hardship,’’ the commissioner said.
