Abbas Haruna, a seaman who faced nearly six years of alleged detention under a senior officer’s orders in the Nigerian Navy, has finally regained his freedom. His release marks the end of a long and tumultuous ordeal for both him and his family.
Haruna’s wife, Hussaina Iliya, brought attention to her husband’s situation during a segment on the popular Abuja-based radio program, Brekete Family. She accused the military of unjustly detaining Haruna since 2018, a claim that struck a chord with many listeners.
In her heartfelt testimony, Iliya specifically pointed to Brig. Gen. A.S. Adamu as the officer responsible for her husband’s detention and the alleged torture he endured. Her accusations quickly gained traction on social media and prompted widespread public outcry.
The issue reached the upper echelons of the military hierarchy, leading Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa and Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle to call for an investigation into the matter. Their involvement indicated the seriousness of the allegations.
Days later, the Defence Headquarters issued a statement claiming that Haruna had never been arrested. This assertion contradicted Iliya’s account and raised questions about the transparency of the military’s operations.
However, controversy intensified when a video surfaced showing Haruna actively resisting disarmament by military personnel. The footage depicted a chaotic scene, with several shots reportedly fired during the encounter, adding weight to Iliya’s claims.
See also: The Nigerian Military Promises Fairness for Seaman Abbas Haruna
On a recent episode of Brekete Family, Iliya and Abbas shared the news of his release. The couple expressed their relief and gratitude, marking a significant turning point in their lives after years of struggle.
In an emotional moment, Iliya recounted their ordeal, saying, “I will stand by him no matter what. They have discharged him. He was ejected from the barracks.” Her words reflected both her devotion to her husband and the challenges they faced together.
The couple’s story has resonated with many, highlighting the often-hidden struggles faced by families of military personnel. Their experience sheds light on the broader issues of justice and accountability within the military system.
As they begin to rebuild their lives, the Haruna family hopes that their ordeal will inspire others to speak out against injustice and seek accountability for those in positions of power.
