The Nigerian Youths for Good Governance (NYGG) has expressed concerns about the recent arrest and detention of Alh. Bello Badejo, a prominent leader of the Fulani community and an advocate for peace and development in Nigeria.
In a statement by the executive director, Alh. Ado Mohammed he said the NYGG gathered that Alh. Badejo was taken into custody by soldiers on December 9, 2024, under questionable circumstances, adding that this is the second such incident, as he was previously allegedly detained for nearly five months in January 2024 without due process or justification.
“The NYGG unequivocally condemns this blatant violation of his fundamental human rights and demands immediate investigation into the actions of the soldiers responsible for his unlawful detention.
“Alh. Bello Badejo has been accused of offenses he is not guilty of. As a respected leader of the Fulani association, he has been working towards the betterment of his community, including plans to commission a mosque and a market for the economic upliftment of his people.
“The NYGG believes these activities, grounded in peace-building and development, are not criminal acts and should not be grounds for such unjustified harassment. We strongly denounce any attempt to silence him or malign his character for his lawful contributions to his community.
“It has come to our attention that Alh. Badejo is currently being held in a dungeon-like facility, and reports indicate that he has been denied access to his family and friends. This inhumane treatment is unconscionable, especially considering that his previous detention caused significant harm to his health,” he said.
The NYGG called on the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, to urgently investigate the circumstances surrounding Alh. Badejo’s arrest and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
“Furthermore, we demand the immediate release of Alh. Bello Badejo and call on the Federal Government to ensure he is granted access to the medical care he desperately needs.
“We will not tolerate any further violations of his rights, and we stand in solidarity with his family and his community in demanding justice,” the statement reads.
