The Patriotic Youth for Better Nigeria (PAYOBEN), on Tuesday, called for the immediate and unconditional release of Bello Badejo, condemning his detention by the Nigerian military as unlawful, inhumane, and a violation of constitutional rights.
It also outlined several points of contention surrounding Badejo’s ongoing ordeal, describing it as a “dangerous precedent” that threatens Nigeria’s democratic values.
The youth group issued this strong rebuke in a statement by its Chairman, Moses Adasu Makurdi, accusing the military of gross abuse of power under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Musa.
Makurdi said: “Bello Badejo’s ordeal is a dangerous precedent that must not stand: Unlawful Detention: Bello Badejo was held for six months without charges, only to be declared innocent before his release. What crime, then, justified his rearrest?
“Health Crisis Ignored: After falling seriously ill from the initial detention, Bello Badejo had to be flown to Egypt for treatment. Rearresting a man in fragile health—already on medication—defies all humanity and logic.
“Trauma on Family: His family has been pushed to the brink, emotionally and psychologically. No Nigerian family deserves this torment.
“Violation of the Constitution: Detaining a citizen without trial is unconstitutional, illegal, and unacceptable in any democracy. The Nigerian military is not above the law. Damage to Nigeria’s Image: This unlawful act risks denting the credibility of our military and Nigeria’s image locally and internationally.
“We demand for the immediate and unconditional release of Bello Badejo; Reunion with his family without further delay; A public explanation for his unlawful rearrest; Urgent intervention by stakeholders, civil society, and the authorities to stop this abuse of power.
“We will not allow this act of injustice to go unchallenged. Nigeria is a nation governed by laws, not brute force. If Bello Badejo is not released, we will mobilize national and international awareness to expose this unconstitutional assault on justice.”