NGO Demands Immediate Release of Detained Security Chief, Otunba Adejare Adegbenro

The Egbe Omo Oduduwa Ifesowapo, a prominent NGO focused on peace and security, has issued a strong condemnation of the Nigeria Police’s Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT) over the detention of Otunba Adejare Adegbenro.

Adegbenro, who serves as the acting Director-General of the National Commission for the Coordination and Control of the Proliferation of Small Arms, Ammunition, and Light Weapons (NATCOM), has been held since April 26, 2024.

The organization asserts that Adegbenro’s detention is unjust and baseless, highlighting his reputable efforts to combat illegal arms in Nigeria.

They emphasize that NATCOM, despite claims of illegality, has been approved by the Senate and is only awaiting the President’s assent. Meanwhile, A Federal High Court in Abuja has also barred the Ministry of Finance and the Nigerian Police from banning the commission.

Egbe Omo Oduduwa Ifesowapo believes that misinformation from disgruntled former NATCOM officials is influencing the actions of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and retired DIG Johnson Kokumo. These officials, allegedly posing as interim DGs, are accused of job racketeering and defrauding the public.

Adegbenro who is also a High Commissioner of the Internal Human Rights Commission had reported these individuals to the police, and an investigation is underway.

The NGO has issued a two-day ultimatum for Adegbenro’s release, warning of legal actions if their demand is not met. They urge President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Attorney General of the Federation and the Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi San, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun to intervene against what they describe as a tribally motivated injustice.

The group underscores Adegbenro’s dedication to national service and peace-building, calling for support from Nigerians, civil society organizations, and the international community to ensure his release and uphold the rule of law. They remind the public of the sacrifices made by Adegbenro’s late grandfather, Pa Alfred Rewane, for Nigeria’s democracy.