Lance Corporal Martins Idakpini, who had been held in military detention since June 2020, has been released by the Nigerian Army, according to a report by PulseNets.
The soldier, who spent three years in custody, expressed his relief at returning home and confirmed his release while speaking to reporters. He credited the new Chief of Army Staff, Maj Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, for ordering his freedom.
Idakpini acknowledged the efforts made to secure his release and mentioned that he is also working towards ensuring the release of other soldiers who are still detained. He expressed gratitude for the forgiveness extended to him. Currently, he is back at his barracks in Sokoto.
Reflecting on his legal ordeal, Idakpini mentioned that he attended numerous court sessions, approximately 12 to 13, and pointed out that the case against him had become statute-barred. He was initially arrested on June 23, 2020.
The soldier’s troubles began when he gained public attention in June 2020 for publicly criticizing the leadership of former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, and the Nigerian Army’s handling of the Boko Haram terrorist group. Subsequently, it was reported on September 7, 2020, that the military planned to subject Idakpini to a court-martial. Allegedly, Colonel Yabaji, the head of the Sokoto barracks where he was detained, instructed eight soldiers to torture him based on Buratai’s orders.
Also Read: Nigerian Army, Navy behind oil theft in Niger Delta — Asari Dokubo
Human rights lawyer Tope Akinyode had obtained a court order on July 22, 2020, from the Abuja Federal High Court, demanding that the army grant Idakpini immediate access to his lawyer and family. However, the military had initially refused to comply with the court order, prolonging his detention.
