Brekete Family, a radio and television station dedicated to human rights and based in Abuja, has announced a temporary suspension of its broadcasts to protest the detention of minors associated with the recent #EndBadGovernance demonstrations. The station confirmed this partial shutdown in an official statement released on X on Monday.
The announcement stated, “Human Rights Radio and Television (Brekete Family) is temporarily ceasing operations to protest against the Nigerian government’s detention of underage individuals. This action highlights our steadfast commitment to protecting the rights of vulnerable populations and ensuring that authorities are held accountable for their actions.”
Additionally, the station urged all concerned Nigerians and international organizations to join their call for the immediate and unconditional release of these minors, asserting, “We will maintain our stance in solidarity with those whose voices are silenced until justice is served.”
In related news, Daily Trust reported that Ahmed Isah, the station’s owner, discussed this decision during his popular breakfast show, Brekete Family. Notably absent from the studio on Monday morning, Isah called in around 8:20 a.m. to express his shock regarding the situation of the detained children, who were arraigned on Friday. His deep frustration led him to direct the station to shut down as a means of protest.
“Human Rights Radio will remain off the air until Tuesday, pending further discussions on this issue,” he stated, adding that the station would go offline again until Wednesday when it would invite public opinions on the matter.
The detention of these minors has incited significant public outcry and increased scrutiny on President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Last week, images of the detained children circulated widely online, prompting a wave of indignation. Nigerians expressed their outrage over the arraignment of 76 individuals, including 32 minors, who were brought before Justice Obiora Egwuatu at the Abuja division of the Federal High Court for participating in the #EndBadGovernance protests held in August.
Civil rights groups and activists have condemned the actions of the police and the government regarding this incident. In response to the uproar, the Nigerian Correctional Service denied allegations that juvenile defendants from the protests were being held in adult facilities at the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja. Following the arraignment, the judge ordered that minors be placed in a borstal facility, while adult defendants would remain in regular cells until they meet their bail conditions.
Reactions to the station’s post on X have been varied, with some users praising the decision while others expressed criticism. A user identified as #SureNigerian remarked, “How does shutting down help? You should use your platform to raise awareness about their plight instead of going dark.” Another user, #starleeon_, added, “Unless you are working behind the scenes to facilitate their release, a partial shutdown isn’t effective. Use your platform to advocate for their unconditional freedom.”
In a different comment, #realadnantweet expressed discontent, stating, “The Tinubu administration is failing miserably. His government is arresting minors and imposing fines of 10 million Naira each while corrupt politicians continue to act with impunity.”
In contrast, #Hausatechguy shared support with the comment, “The Voice of the Voiceless #Istandwithbrekete,” while another user, #Holyface21, remarked, “Media platforms should not shut down in solidarity with the oppressed; instead, they should be used continuously to support and advocate for them.”
