Defence Ministry, DHQ Investigates ‘Unlawful’ Detention Of Seaman For Six Years
The Minister of Defence, Bello Matawalle has condemned the alleged incarceration of a Naval rating, Seaman Abbas Haruna, for nearly six years.
Haruna’s wife, Usaina who appeared on the Brekete Family show had accused the military of detaining her husband for allegedly leaving the parade to pray.
The minister in a statement signed by his Personal Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan-Wudil stated that the claims by the family will be thoroughly investigated.
The statement said, “Our armed forces are built on the pillars of honour, discipline, and justice. No officer serving this great nation should be subjected to undue hardship or wrongful treatment.
“The case of Seaman Abbas will be thoroughly investigated, and the truth will be uncovered. I assure the public that this matter will be handled with the utmost seriousness, and justice will prevail.
“We remain committed to upholding the integrity of our military and the rights of every individual under the law.”
The minister, however, said that Haruna’s rights will be protected during the investigation, and any breach of protocol will be addressed.
Similarly, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in a statement on Monday said it has directed an immediate investigation into the matter.
The statement signed by its Director Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau noted that the outcome of the investigation will be made public in due course.
The statement said, “The DHQ wishes to assure the public that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remains committed to upholding justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
“The military court-martial process, though meticulous, ensures fairness, equal opportunity, and justice in accordance with established military procedures and the law.
“In response to this allegation, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has directed an immediate investigation into the matter. The outcome of the investigation will be made public in due course.
“The DHQ urges the general public to exercise caution and refrain from spreading unsubstantiated information while the investigation is ongoing.
“We assure Nigerians that the Armed Forces will ensure a speedy and transparent investigation.”
Defence Ministry, DHQ Investigates ‘Unlawful’ Detention Of Seaman For Six Years is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
