The Nigerian Army has dismissed claims circulating on social media accusing the military of illegally detaining and mistreating Nansak Selbar, a POS operator and school teacher in Plateau State. The allegations, which also involved Major General Nansak Shagaya, were branded as false and misleading in an official statement released on Saturday, January 4, 2025.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 3 Division Nigerian Army, Selbar was arrested on November 7, 2024, at Nyak Government Secondary School, Ajikamai, Shendam Local Government Area. He faces accusations of facilitating criminal activities, including receiving ransom payments for kidnappers, procuring military uniforms for bandits, and defrauding individuals by falsely promising recruitment into the Nigerian Army.
The Army refuted claims that Selbar had been denied legal representation or court appearances, asserting that his detention was in accordance with the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act (TPPA) 2022. An Ex-Parte Motion was obtained from a competent court to detain him for investigations, which will precede his transfer to relevant authorities for further action.
“The allegations of illegal detention and health complications are baseless,” the Army’s statement read. “Mr. Selbar’s custody is lawful and aligns with extant laws for investigating activities detrimental to national security.”
The Army also criticized the suspect’s legal counsel for allegedly misrepresenting facts to incite public discontent. “It is disturbing that counsel familiar with the TPPA 2022 would malign the judicial process to sway public opinion against the military,” the statement added.
The viral claims suggest that the Army and Major General Shagaya could face a N100 million lawsuit for Selbar’s detention. The military, however, dismissed these as efforts by “mischief makers” to undermine the credibility of security agencies.
The statement further emphasized the Army’s commitment to combating criminal elements and maintaining national security. It urged bloggers and media outlets to verify facts before disseminating information to avoid fueling disinformation and public panic.
“We warn crisis merchants to desist from spreading false narratives against security agencies working tirelessly to protect society,” the Army stated, assuring the public of their dedication to safeguarding lives and property.
The case continues to stir debate, with calls for transparency and adherence to legal processes in handling such sensitive matters.
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