The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says it has become aware of a video clip circulating widely, alleging the prolonged and unjust detention of a Naval rating, Seaman Abbas Haruna. According to the claims made in the video, Haruna has been incarcerated for a period spanning six years without just cause.
In light of these serious accusations, the DHQ has issued a formal statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau reassuring the public that the Armed Forces of Nigeria is unwavering in its commitment to upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
According to the statement, the Armed Forces maintain that their legal processes, including the court-martial system, are designed to ensure that every individual is granted a fair trial. It goes further to say that the system follows stringent military procedures and adheres to the laws of the country, ensuring equal opportunities for all personnel to present their case.
The statement also emphasized that the court-martial process, while thorough and meticulous, serves to guarantee impartiality and justice. It said every case brought before a military court is reviewed with the highest level of diligence, and all judgments are made based on established legal frameworks to prevent any form of bias or injustice.
Responding to the allegations surrounding Seaman Abbas Haruna’s incarceration, the statement maintained that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has taken swift action by ordering an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the matter adding that the DHQ is keen to underscore its commitment to transparency and assures the public that the findings of this investigation will be made available in due time.
Accordingly, the statement maintained that the investigation aims to clarify the circumstances surrounding Seaman Haruna’s detention, ensuring that any discrepancies are addressed promptly, and that justice is served in accordance with military and national legal standards.
In the meantime, the DHQ has urged the public to exercise caution and to avoid the dissemination of unverified or misleading information, which could undermine the investigation process reminding the public of the importance of patience and trust in the institutions responsible for justice, particularly as the Armed Forces of Nigeria strives to ensure a fair and transparent investigation.
