The CDS, COAS and the Commanding Officer of 177 battalion have some explanations to give before the House Committees on Army, Human Rights and Justice this Thursday over unlawful detention
The House of Representatives has strongly condemned the unlawful arrest and detention of a prominent community leader, Alhaji Bello Badejo, by officers of the 177 Battalion of the Nigerian Army, calling it a violation of his fundamental human rights as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
The House further criticized what it termed an attempt by the Nigerian Army to usurp the responsibilities of the police and the courts in resolving disputes among citizens
It called on the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) to order the immediate release of Alh Bello Badejo from unlawful detention and to also apologize to him for infringing on his constitutionally-guaranteed fundamental human rights.
These resolutions followed a motion of importance by Rep. Mansur Mano Soro (PDP Bauchi), during plenary on Tuesday.
While presenting the motion, Rep. Soro reminded the House that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) guarantees the fundamental rights to life, dignity, and freedom for every Nigerian citizen. He further stated that the role of the Nigerian military, as defined by the laws of the federation, is strictly to protect the external and territorial integrity of the country and to act in support of civil authorities.
The lawmaker disclosed that on December 9, 2024, Alhaji Bello Badejo was arrested in a “commando-style” operation in Maliya town, Nasarawa State, by officers of the 177 Battalion. The arrest, Soro noted, was carried out without prior invitation or any court order.
“The arrest is allegedly in connection to a misunderstanding between a retired military general and some members of the Maliya community,” Soro stated
The lawmaker expressed deep concern that one week after the arrest, Alh Bello Badejo is yet to be arraigned before a competent court of jurisdiction as required by the extant laws of the land.
He emphasized that the continued detention of Alh Bello Badejo by officers of the Nigerian Army without formal charge(s) is a violation of his fundamental human rights as provided for, in sections 34, 35 and 36 of the Constitution of the FRN, 1999 as amended.
Adopting the motion, the House resolved to invite the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff and the Commanding Officer of 177 battalion to cause an appearance before the House Committees on Army, Human Rights and Justice on Thursday 20th December 2024 at 3:00pm to explain why officers under their command violated the relevant provisions of the Nigerian Constitution.
