
The House of Representatives Committee on Navy has launched an investigation into the prolonged detention of Seaman Abbas Haruna, who has allegedly been held without trial for nearly six years. The detention, reportedly ordered by Brigadier General MS Adamu, has drawn widespread condemnation and is now the subject of a formal inquiry.
Seaman Abbas’ ordeal came to light after his wife, Mrs. Hussaina Iliyasu, shared his story on *Berekete*, a popular human rights television program. According to her account, Abbas’ troubles began in 2018 while he was serving on a joint operation in Sarti Baruwa, Taraba State, under Brigadier Adamu’s command. A misunderstanding between the two reportedly escalated, resulting in Abbas’ detention under inhumane conditions, without trial, in violation of the Armed Forces Act of 2004.
The emotional recount of Abbas’ suffering during the broadcast moved many viewers to tears and sparked outrage among Nigerians who expressed concern over the apparent abuse of power within the military ranks. Public pressure and widespread condemnation of Brigadier Adamu’s actions have led the House Committee on Navy, chaired by Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, PhD OON, to intervene.
In a statement, the committee vowed to uncover the truth behind Seaman Abbas’ detention and to hold accountable all those involved in the alleged rights violations. The investigation will also assess whether the military acted in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and ensure that justice is served for Abbas and his family.
The committee has pledged to follow up with the military hierarchy to guarantee that the integrity of the armed forces is upheld and that all responsible officers face appropriate consequences for their actions.