By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
The House of Representatives has been urged to resolve to condemn the attempt by the officers of 177 battalion to take over the work of the Nigerian Police and the courts in resolving disputes between citizens.
The urge was contained in a motion pursuant to Order 8 Rule 5 of the House Standing Orders on the Urgent need to preserve public order and to intervene in the unlawful arrest and detention of a Community Leader, Alh . Bello Badejo by the Officer of 177 Battalion of the Nigerian Army presented by the Member representing Darazo/Ganjuwa Federal Constituency of Bauchi State, Hon Mansur Manu Soro on Tuesday during plenary.
He also urged for a call 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.
He further urged the House 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.
According to the Member, he stated that, “Notes that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended has guaranteed the fundamental human rights to life and dignity.”
He added that, “Further notes that the laws of the Federation restricted the operation of the Nigerian Military to protecting the external and territorial integrity of Nigeria and acting in aid of the civil authorities.”
Mansur Manu Soro further wrote in the motion that,”Informed that on the 9th of December 2024, a distinguished community leader, in person of Alh. Bello Badejo was arrested in Maliya town of Nassarawa State in a commando style by the Officers of the 177 Battalion of the Nigerian Army with no prior invitation or court injunction.”
“Further informed that the arrest is allegedly in connection to a misunderstanding between a retired Military General and some members of the Maliya community,” he added.
He lamented that, “Concerned 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 added that, “Disturbed 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.