The Nigerian Army has strongly refuted allegations of illegal detention and mistreatment of a Point of Sale (POS) operator, Mr. Nansak Selbar, who was reportedly arrested on November 7, 2024, at his workplace in Nyak Government Secondary School, Ajikamai, Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State.
In a statement issued on Saturday, January 4, 2025, by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 3 Division Nigerian Army, the allegations were described as false, malicious, and misleading. The Army urged the public to disregard the claims, which it said were being circulated by mischief makers to tarnish the image of security agencies.
According to the Army’s statement, Mr. Selbar was arrested for his alleged involvement in facilitating criminal activities, including acting as a middleman in ransom payments for kidnappers. He was also accused of procuring military uniforms and equipment for bandits and defrauding individuals by falsely promising recruitment into the Nigerian Army.
The Army stated that investigations into Selbar’s activities revealed his connection to actions detrimental to national security. Under the provisions of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act (TPPA) 2022, a court order was obtained through a Motion Ex-Parte to detain him for further investigation before transferring him to the appropriate agency for prosecution.
Lieutenant Colonel Danja emphasized that the detention was lawful and conducted in accordance with existing laws. He dismissed the claim that the detention was ordered by Major General Nansak Shagaya, labeling such allegations as baseless.
“It is imperative to point out that the suspect is not illegally detained but rather in custody in line with the provisions of extant laws for investigations on activities inimical to national security,” the statement read.
The Army criticized a report attributed to one Alex Giwa, published on January 3, 2025, alleging that Selbar was critically ill and at the point of death. The statement condemned the article as an attempt to incite public sentiment against the military.
The Army urged media professionals and bloggers to exercise caution and verify facts before publishing stories. “The proliferation of fake and misleading news can have dire consequences, leading to disaffection, confusion, panic, and further division between security agencies and the general public,” Danja noted.
The 3 Division Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property within its jurisdiction. It called on citizens to support the military by providing timely intelligence to combat criminal elements.
The Army warned against the spread of false narratives, cautioning individuals and groups against actions aimed at undermining the efforts of security agencies.
The statement underscores the Army’s resolve to carry out its duties within the ambit of the law while combating crime and protecting national security. It also serves as a reminder of the critical role of accurate and responsible journalism in shaping public opinion and fostering trust between citizens and security institutions.
