The House of Representatives has demanded the immediate release of Bello Badejo, the president of Miyetti Allah, from what it described as unlawful detention. The directive was issued to the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Olufemi Oloyede.
In addition, the Green Chamber summoned the military leaders, along with the Commanding Officer of the 177 Battalion, to appear before the House Committees on Army, Human Rights, and Justice on December 20, 2024. They are expected to explain the constitutional violations surrounding Badejo’s detention.
The House also directed the military to apologise to Badejo for infringing on his fundamental human rights, which are guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution.
The resolution was based on a motion presented by Hon. Mansur Soro during plenary on Tuesday. Soro revealed that Badejo was arrested on December 9, 2024, in Maliya town, Nasarawa State, by officers of the 177 Battalion of the Nigerian Army in a “commando-style operation.” He stated that the arrest occurred without prior invitation or a court order and was allegedly linked to a dispute involving a retired military general and members of the Maliya community.
Soro expressed concern over Badejo’s continued detention without formal charges or arraignment before a competent court. He argued that this violates Sections 34, 35, and 36 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which protect citizens’ fundamental rights.
The House resolved to:
- Condemn the actions of the 177 Battalion for overstepping the role of the police and courts in resolving civil disputes.
- Call for Badejo’s immediate release and an official apology from the military for the rights violation.
- Summon the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, and the Commanding Officer of the 177 Battalion to clarify the matter before the House Committees on December 20, 2024.
This decision underscores the legislature’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding citizens’ constitutional rights.
