EXCLUSIVE: Nigerian Army Detains Abuja Cattle Dealers' Chairman Over Brekete Radio Allegations

Abuja, Nigeria – Shagari Usman Yusuf, Chairman of the Dei-Dei International Livestock Market, Abuja, has been arrested and detained by the Nigerian Army following his appearance on the popular human rights program, Brekete Family. Yusuf’s arrest comes after he escalated allegations of illegal detention of 12 members of his association and two others, alongside claims of military seizure of N88 million and 341 cows belonging to his colleagues.

NewsFrontier learned that Yusuf was detained shortly after he disclosed these allegations on the Brekete Family platform, a show dedicated to addressing human rights abuses. This incident has drawn widespread attention and raised concerns about the treatment of cattle dealers and the military's adherence to due process.

Background of the Case

The controversy began on May 17, 2024, when 12 cattle traders were reportedly arrested at a military checkpoint in Borno State while traveling with large sums of cash intended for cattle purchases. Their lawyer, Barrister Abdulwahab Aliyu, revealed that they were detained at a military facility in Maiduguri, despite there being no legal grounds for their arrest.

The detainees’ association chairman, Yusuf, reportedly traveled to Maiduguri to visit the detained members but was denied access. Efforts to mediate through legal channels and public advocacy, including the intervention of Brekete Family, led to Yusuf being summoned twice to the Army Headquarters in Abuja. However, tensions escalated when armed military personnel stormed the Dei-Dei Market, arrested Yusuf, and transferred him to Giwa Barracks in Maiduguri.

Military's Position

When contacted, Nigerian Army spokesperson Major General Nwachukwu Onyema denied allegations of illegal detention, citing an ongoing appeal of a court judgment that ruled in favor of the detained suspects. "The appeal is in process. Nigerian Army external advocate already filed the notice of appeal," Onyema stated.

Allegations of Abuse and Rights Violations

Yusuf's lawyers claim he was hooded, tortured, and held in an underground cell before being moved to Maiduguri. His detention adds to a growing list of grievances against the military’s handling of the case, which has already seen one other association member, Alhaji Musa Mustapha Umar, arrested for attempting to visit the detainees.

According to Yusuf’s lawyer, "The actions of the military reflect a blatant disregard for human rights and the rule of law, especially given the court's ruling in favor of the detainees."

Impact on the Livestock Industry

The case has disrupted the operations of the Dei-Dei International Livestock Market, one of Nigeria's largest hubs for cattle trade. Stakeholders worry about the broader implications for trust and security within the sector.

What Lies Ahead?

With the Nigerian Army pursuing legal appeals and human rights groups demanding accountability, the case has become a litmus test for civil-military relations and the rule of law in Nigeria. As tensions mount, all eyes remain on the judicial process and public advocacy efforts like Brekete Family to ensure justice is served.

The situation underscores the need for transparency and adherence to legal protocols, particularly in sensitive matters involving livelihoods and fundamental rights.