Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has expressed his intention to sue the federal government for failing to uphold minors’ right to education as mandated by the Child Rights Act.
Falana’s decision comes despite the recent release of minors detained for protesting against poor governance.
He argued that the government’s actions fall short of addressing the children’s educational needs and rights.
Falana made this statement at the launch of Judicial Terrorism: A Macabre Trial and Death Sentences on Major General Zamani Lekwot and 5 Others on the Zangon Kataf Crisis, a book by Mr. Richard Akinola, held at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Abuja.
Falana recounted his recent court appearance, saying, “This morning, in an Abuja court, 119 Nigerians, including 29 minors, were presented.
However, the government was too ashamed to proceed in open court. The frivolous charges were withdrawn, and the minors have been released.”
“But terminating the trial isn’t enough. These young people, who should have been in school, must be rehabilitated.
If the government fails, we’ll take them to court because it’s their responsibility under the Child Rights Law. Section 15 mandates free, compulsory education up to junior secondary school, and we will ensure this education is extended to senior secondary school,” he added.
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