On December 8, 2023, we responded to a distress call for nine juveniles held at Borstal Institute Abeokuta, facing an alarming situation. These young individuals had been arrested and remanded since 2019/2020 without being presented in court.
Borstal presents a stark reality, prompting our visit after a concerned listener heard my interview on State Affairs with Edmund Obilo on Splash 105.5 FM Ibadan.
1. Arson and Theft Charges:
– Kehinde Solola, Salawudeen Kamilu, Azeez Isiaka, and Hussen Sadiq were arrested separately in Lagos for arson and theft. Charged in Igbosere Magistrate Court, they were remanded in Abeokuta, Ogun State, due to their underage status. Hindered by the ENDSARS protest, their case files may have been affected, leaving them in custody since 2019/2020.
2. Lekan Atanda’s Plight:
– Lekan Atanda, found sleeping outside his house in Abule Egba, Lagos, was arrested and charged with four adults. While the adults were released, Lekan remains in Abeokuta Borstal Institute due to his underage status.
3. Generator Theft Accusation:
– Four boys—Bilesanmi Darasimi (11), Emiola OlowoAke (12), Yusuf Sadiq (13), and Ibrahim Olalekan (14)—accused of stealing a generator, claim innocence. Despite being in custody since July 2023, they haven’t been taken to court in Ijebu Igbo. Transportation costs hinder court appearances.
Amid these challenges, Borstal Institute deserves credit for its vocational center, offering skill acquisition opportunities. However, concerns arise for those still awaiting resolution, some without parental contacts.
In collaboration with a lawyer offering Pro Bono service, we face logistical challenges to navigate the justice system. To free these boys, we plan to obtain charge numbers, write to the Lagos State Attorney General, notify the Commissioner of Police, and inform the Chief Judge of Lagos State.
Juvenile delinquency is acknowledged, but addressing their plight requires a collective effort. Our hope is to bring justice to these young lives and intervene for those in Ijebu Igbo. Watch the video [here](https://youtu.be/k9lF8NSVUJ4?si=iRxrJkI73ZMA4KnW).
Watch our meeting with the Chief Judge of the state here as well : https://youtu.be/K-QuIA7bk6Y?si=padC2ogOKKix9bC4
Stay tuned for updates as we work towards a brighter future for these young individuals.