DHQ Denies Six-Year Detention Of Naval Rating

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has denied claims that Seaman Abbas Haruna was detained for six years, as alleged by his wife, Hussaina Iliya.

According to the DHQ, Haruna was never arrested.

The allegation surfaced after Haruna’s wife went on a popular Abuja radio station, accusing Brig. Gen. A.S. Adamu of ordering her husband’s detention since 2018.

Naija News reports that the story gained widespread attention, leading Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa and Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle to call for an investigation.

Following this, a video circulated online showing Haruna resisting attempts by fellow personnel to disarm him. The video cut off mid-scuffle, but gunshots were heard.

In an interview with The Punch, Director of Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, dismissed the claims.

“He was never under arrest. People are just making an issue out of no issue,” Gusau said.

When questioned about Haruna’s current location, Gusau noted that the investigation is ongoing and the public would be informed once it concludes.

“Investigation is currently ongoing. By the time the investigation report is ready, we will inform Nigerians what happened and where he is,” he added.

He reiterated that Haruna’s wife knew her husband was not in detention, and more information would be revealed upon the investigation’s conclusion.

“She knows her husband was never under arrest. At the right time, we will let people know what happened,” Gusau stated.