Group demands immediate release of Bodejo, says his continued detention unconstitutional

A human rights group under the auspices of Concerned Citizens of Like Minds (CCLM) on Thursday demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Alhaji Bello Bodejo, describing his continued detention as unconstitutional and a violation of human dignity.

The Secretary of the group, Adamu Adamu Matazu along with the wife of the suspected detainee, Hauwa Bello Bodejo made the request at news conference in Abuja.

Matazu said that Bodejo was first arrested by officers of the 177 Battalion, Keffi, and subsequently transferred to the custody of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA).

He added that since his detention, he has been subjected to prolonged confinement without any substantiated charges being brought against him.

According to him, this is yet another instance of unwarranted persecution against a man who has dedicated his life to promoting peace, understanding, and national cohesion.

“It is disheartening to note that this is not the first time Alhaji Bello Bodejo has been targeted. Similar arrests by various security agencies in the past have yielded no evidence to justify the allegations leveled against him.

“Despite these repeated violations of his rights, no charges have been proven, and the current accusations appear to follow the same baseless pattern.

“Even more alarming is the deteriorating state of his health due to the harsh and unjust conditions of his detention. Alhaji Bello Bodejo’s well-being has significantly declined under the custody of the Nigerian military, raising serious concerns about the disregard for his fundamental rights and humanity.

“We, the Concerned Citizens of Like Minds, demand the immediate and unconditional release of Alhaji Bello Bodejo. His continued detention is not only unconstitutional but also a violation of his human dignity and a grave injustice to a man whose contributions to Nigeria’s unity cannot be overstated.

“We also call on Prestdent Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, to urgently intervene in this matter. It is imperative that the Nigerian military and all security agencies operate within the confines of the Constitution and uphold the principles of justice and fairness.”

Matazu added that no individual or institution should be allowed to act outside the law, as such actions undermine the foundations of our democracy.

“We urge the government to address the systemic issues that allow for the arbitrary arrest and detention of innocent citizens. Alhaji Bello Bodejo’s case is a reminder of the urgent need for accountability and reform within our security institutions,” he said.