PERCEPTION OF NIGERIANS ON THE ARREST AND DETENTION OF MINORS INVOLVED IN HASHTAG END BAD GOVERNANCE PROTEST

This study examined the perception of Nigerians regarding the arrest and detention of minors involved in the hashtag End Bad Governance protest. Five objectives guided the conduct of the investigation. Survey method of research was adopted and Questionnaire was the instrument used in obtaining information from the 384 sampled population. Findings showed that a polarized perception: while some participants criticized the authorities for violating the rights of minors and undermining their freedom of expression, others supported strict law enforcement, citing the vulnerability of children to exploitation during protests. The study also highlights the role of media in shaping public opinion and the varying levels of awareness regarding the legal protections for minors under Nigerian law. Furthermore, the research underscores the broader implications for governance, social justice, and youth participation in national discourse. The arrest and detention of minors were found to have significant repercussions on the credibility of law enforcement and the effectiveness of civic engagement movements in Nigeria. The study concludes by recommending strategies for safeguarding the rights of minors, fostering constructive dialogue between authorities and protesters, and promoting legal and ethical approaches to managing civic unrest. This research contributes to ongoing discussions on youth rights, governance, and the intersection of digital activism with public policy, offering valuable insights for policymakers, human rights advocates, and scholars in civic engagement.