Coalition Demands Immediate Release of Badejo From ‘Unlawful’ Detention

The Coalition of Youths for Vanguards for Democratic Solidarity (CYVDS), has raised alarm over the continued detention of Alh. Bello Badejo, a community leader.

The coalition said Badejo, who is known as an advocate for peace and development in Nigeria, was reportedly taken into custody by soldiers on December 9, 2024, under questionable circumstances.

Comrade Rabiu Abubakar Mato, Chairman of the Coalition, in a statement said the latest arrest is the second such incident, as he was previously detained for nearly five months in early 2024 without criminal conviction.

The statement reads: “We categorically state that Alh. Bello Badejo is not a terrorist, nor has he been involved in any criminal activities. The accusations levied against him are baseless, and the treatment he has received is completely disproportionate to his actions.

“The CYVDS condemns in the strongest terms the unlawful actions of the military personnel involved and calls for an immediate and thorough investigation by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa into this matter.

“We are especially concerned for the health and well-being of Alh. Badejo, who, due to his previous detention, has suffered significant physical and mental harm for which he had to seek for medical attention within and outside the country.

“Thus, the CYVDS believes that denying him access to medical care and family members is not only inhumane but also constitutes a violation of his basic rights as Nigerian and human being.

“As a coalition of youths committed to democratic principles and justice, we demand that the Federal Government to immediately order military authories to release Alh. Bello Badejo and allow him to seek the medical attention he urgently requires.

“We also urge the Government to guarantee that no citizen, regardless of their background or position, is subjected to illegal arrest, detention, or mistreatment. We call for an end to this pattern of unlawful behaviour by the military, and we demand that all relevant authorities take swift action to protect the rights and dignity of every Nigerian.

“The CYVDS will continue to advocate for the rights and privileges of Nigerians and will not rest until justice is served.”