General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, has ordered an immediate probe into the claimed wrongful detention of Seaman Abbas Haruna, a Nigerian Naval rating, who has been held for six years.
News About Nigeria reports that the CDS’s directives is contained in a statement issued by the Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, on Monday in Abuja.
Haruna’s spouse had earlier spoken out on a radio program in Abuja, alleging that her husband was being unfairly held by military officials for nearly six years.
Gusau assured the public of the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s commitment to upholding justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
He said the military court-martial process, though meticulous, ensured fairness, equal opportunity, and justice in accordance with established military procedures and the law
“The outcome of the investigation will be made public in due course,” he said.
“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.”
Earlier, the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) expressed deep concerned over the alleged ‘unjust’ treatment of the Seaman, who it said has become a victim of egregious misconduct within the armed forces.
“We demand that the military hierarchy take immediate steps to review this case and provide the necessary support for Seaman Abbas’s rehabilitation. It is critical that the injustices he has faced be addressed with urgency to restore his dignity and that of his family,” NEF said in a statement.
