In a significant development, 114 individuals, including both minors and adults previously detained in connection with the #EndBadGovernance protests, were welcomed at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday afternoon following their release by the Federal High Court in Abuja. The group was received by Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu, after Justice Obiora Egwatu dismissed the charges against them upon the request of Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) Lateef Fagbemi, who filed a motion for their unconditional release.

The former detainees will be handed over to their respective state governors, including Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, as part of the coordinated efforts to reintegrate them into their communities.

The reception at the State House Auditorium included high-profile government officials, signaling the federal government’s commitment to restoring normalcy and supporting the reintegration of these individuals. Among those present were Minister of Education Tunji Alausa, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction Nentawe Yilwatda, and Minister of Environment Balarabe Lawal. Also in attendance were Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction Tanko Sununu and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement for the North-West Abdullahi Yakasai.

In addition, key legislative leaders were represented, with Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau and House Committee on Appropriation Chairman Hon. Abubakar Bich joining the event.

The gathering marks a milestone in the administration’s handling of the fallout from the #EndBadGovernance protests, as the federal government works alongside state leaders to ensure the peaceful reintegration of these individuals.