Family demands release of Miyetti Allah leader from detention

December 12, 2024

By Samuel Ogunsona

The family of Alhaji Bello Bodejo, President of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, is calling for his immediate release from detention.

Bodejo was arrested by soldiers of the 117 Guards’ Battalion of the Nigerian Army in Keffi, Nasarawa State, on December 9.

According to his brother, Suleman Waziri, Bodejo’s detention is connected to an incident between a retired General and herders at Tudun Wada in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. Waziri explained that “the General reportedly discharged firearms at a herd of cattle, causing significant losses for the herders. Acting in self-defence, the herders disarmed the General and reported the matter to the police.”

Waziri emphasized that his brother had no connection to the incident, stating, “His arrest is wholly unwarranted and appears to be based on unfounded allegations.”

He added that Bodejo’s only involvement was when relatives of the herders approached him for help in securing the release of their confiscated cattle.

The family is accusing the Nigerian Army of breaching human rights with Bodejo’s “illegal detention”.

They claim that efforts to meet with him have been denied, with the Commanding Officer stating that permission could only come from “above”.

Lt. Olokodana Odunayo, acting Public Relations Officer of the Guards’ Brigade, confirmed Bodejo’s arrest and stated that he has been transferred to the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) for further investigation.