The House of Representatives has summoned the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, and the Commanding Officer of the 177 Battalion to appear before its Committees on Army, Human Rights, and Justice.
The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, December 20, 2024, to address allegations of unlawful arrest and detention involving the Nigerian Army.
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The summons follows reports of the alleged arrest and detention of a community leader in Nasarawa State by the 177 Battalion. Lawmakers have raised concerns over the violation of the individual’s fundamental human rights, citing provisions of Sections 34, 35, and 36 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
A member of the House noted that, despite the passage of one week since the arrest, the detainee, identified as Badejo, has not been arraigned. This, they argued, constitutes an unlawful act and a breach of constitutional rights.
The House Committees are expected to probe the incident and seek explanations from the military officials regarding the alleged misconduct. This development underscores the House’s commitment to ensuring accountability and upholding the rule of law.