In Nigeria, twenty -nine children between the ages of 14 and 17 can receive a death penalty on charges of treason, made after their participation in protests. Together with other protesters, they have been in custody for more than 90 days, UNN reports with reference to the Associated Press. This news has caused deep indignation in Nigeria and the international community, which call for such rigid measures for minors.
The crisis of cost of life has led to numerous mass protests in Nigeria in recent months. In August, at least 20 people were killed in protests when young people demanded improvement of opportunities and jobs.
Already, the charges have been put forward by 76 protesters, including 29 minors, who can be awarded the death penalty. According to the documents, the age of accused children is 14 to 17 years.
The protesters were charged with 10 points, including state treason, destruction of property, violation of public order and rebellion, as stated in the indictment.
Although the death penalty in Nigeria was introduced in the 1970s, it has not been used since 2016.
The lawyer of the accused Marshal Abubakar reported that the court had appointed a pledge of $ 10 million (about $ 5.900) for each defendant and set strict conditions that have not yet been fulfilled.
"The country that has the duty to raise their children has decided to punish them. These children have been in custody for 90 days without food," Abubakar said.
He added that four children had fainted in court due to exhaustion, not having time to file a petition.
Adamoleun, executive director of the organization Enough isough, which is fighting for proper governance in Nigeria, is convinced that the authorities have no right to persecute minors.
"Nigeria's chief judge should be ashamed, because she is a woman and mother," the adamolek said.
Earlier, the Nigerian security forces detained seven citizens of Poland, including six students and a teacher who allegedly hung Russian flags during protests against economic difficulties in the West African country.
