Northern Elders Forum Condemns ‘Nigerian Military’s Unjust Treatment Of Seaman Abbas For Leading Prayer’
The case gained public attention when Abbas’s wife, Mrs Husaina Abbas, appeared on the popular Berekete Family television programme in Abuja, narrating her husband’s plight.
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has expressed concern over the alleged unjust treatment of Seaman Haruna Abbas, a military officer who, according to the group, has fallen victim to serious misconduct within the armed forces.
In a statement issued by the NEF’s Director of Publicity and Advocacy, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, the group emphasized its unity in condemning the troubling circumstances surrounding Abbas’s ordeal.
The case gained public attention when Abbas’s wife, Mrs Husaina Abbas, appeared on the popular Berekete Family television programme in Abuja, narrating her husband’s plight.
Mrs Abbas’s testimony raised concerns over potential breaches of accountability and ethical standards within the military.
According to the NEF, Seaman Abbas’s incarceration points to serious lapses in the handling of military justice, prompting the elders’ forum to demand transparency and fairness from the armed forces.
“The Northern Elders Forum is gravely disturbed by the circumstances surrounding Seaman Haruna Abbas’s case and the larger implications for military integrity,” Suleiman stated.
Mrs. Abbas stated that her husband, Seaman Abbas, has been unjustly sentenced to a harsh six-year imprisonment by his superior, Lieutenant Colonel Muhammad S. Adamu, the battalion commander. She emphasized that this severe punishment was not due to any misconduct or criminal behaviour.
Instead, it was a result of Seaman Abbas’s decision to lead his troops in prayer, demonstrating his commitment to their moral and spiritual welfare.
The NEF condemned this action and described it as an attack on Seaman Abbas’s character and authority, which they viewed as a violation of societal values.
It said, “Our military, often regarded as the backbone of national security, must be a model of integrity and respect for human dignity.
“The decision to punish a soldier for promoting unity and spiritual strength among his peers raises profound questions about the leadership and operational ethos within the force. Such an act does not only demoralise those still serving; it sets a dangerous precedent that could undermine the collective spirit necessary for effective military operation.”
