Governor Sani Uba of Kaduna State has awarded ₦100,000 and smartphones to 39 #EndBadGovernance protesters recently released from detention, promising additional support for those who commit to personal reform and social productivity. The governor’s representative, Secretary to the Kaduna State Government Abdulkadir Meyere, conveyed these commitments on the governor’s behalf, announcing plans for rehabilitation and empowerment initiatives aimed at helping the former detainees rebuild their lives.

The state government has begun collecting educational and personal details of the released protesters to monitor their progress. “We’ve taken records of their contact information, next of kin, and educational qualifications,” Meyere stated, noting that the governor is particularly interested in helping those with completed tertiary education.

Following their release, the former detainees underwent medical examinations and received psycho-social counseling. According to Meyere, “The Governor promised that some of them will receive start-up capital for small businesses, others will undergo skills training, and employment opportunities will be offered to qualified individuals.”

Kaduna’s state government has also committed to monitoring the 39 individuals to ensure good conduct, which is a prerequisite for the promised assistance. “Both Islamic and Christian religious leaders spoke to them about embracing the values of their faiths, staying away from negative influences, and seeking personal and community progress,” Meyere added.

The #EndBadGovernance protests, which erupted in August in response to Nigeria’s challenging economic conditions, initially began as peaceful demonstrations but escalated in certain areas, resulting in property damage. In the months following, some protesters faced a 10-count charge from the Federal Government—a move that drew public backlash, particularly after minors were identified among the accused.

Responding to public outcry, President Bola Tinubu intervened, calling for the release of the detained protesters, including the 39 now receiving aid from Kaduna’s governor.