By Joy Yesufu
The House of Representatives has called on Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa and Chief of Army Staff Lt-Gen. Olufemi Oloyede to promptly release Bello Badejo, President of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, from unlawful detention.
The House also summoned the CDS, the COAS , and the Commanding Officer of the 177 Battalion to appear before the Committees on Army, Human Rights, and Justice on Thursday, December 20, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. to explain actions taken under their command that allegedly violated the Nigerian Constitution.
This resolution follows a motion presented on Tuesday by Hon. Mansur Soro, who stated that Badejo was arrested on December 9, 2024, in Maliya town, Nasarawa State, during a commando-style operation conducted by officers from the 177 Battalion, without prior notice or a court order.
The arrest reportedly stemmed from a misunderstanding involving a retired military general and members of the local community.
Soro expressed concern that after a week in custody, Badejo had not been formally arraigned, contravening legal requirements. He highlighted that the continued detention without formal charges infringes on Badejo’s fundamental human rights as protected by Sections 34, 35, and 36 of the Nigerian Constitution.
Following deliberations, the House made several key resolutions:
1.Condemnation of Misconduct: The House condemned the actions of the 177 Battalion officers for overstepping their authority and usurping the roles of the police and judiciary in civil matters.
2. Call for Immediate Release: The House directed the Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Army Staff to facilitate the immediate release of Bello Badejo and issue a formal apology for violating his constitutional rights.
3. Summons to Military Leadership: The senior military officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, and Commanding Officer of the 177 Battalion, are required to explain their actions before the relevant House committees.
