 group has issued a stern demand to the Nigerian Federal Government for the immediate and unconditional release){kind=link}
By Fatima Mukhtar
The Arewa Youth Ambassadors (AYA) group has issued a stern demand to the Nigerian Federal Government for the immediate and unconditional release of Shehu Musa Aljan, a revered local hunter known for his extensive history of collaborating with security agencies to combat banditry in Northern Nigeria. Aljan is currently serving a controversial 45-year prison sentence, a judgment the AYA claims has caused widespread outrage and is an unjust consequence for a community hero.
In a statement signed by Comrd. Yahaya M. Abdullahi, the AYA highlighted Aljan’s dedicated service over several years, working alongside security forces to track criminals and dismantle terrorist cells. The group expressed grave concern that someone who has sacrificed his life for the safety of others is now suffering in prison.
The AYA statement detailed Aljan’s significant achievements, including a 2019 incident on the Abuja-Kaduna highway where he reportedly tracked bandits, captured several individuals, recovered over 1,000 stolen cattle, and seized numerous AK-47 and AK-49 rifles. He allegedly rejected a N2 million bribe offer from the criminals during the operation, adhering to his belief that dialogue with bandits is unacceptable.
The situation abruptly changed after Aljan’s participation in an operation in Bauchi State.
Following this assignment, he was arrested, prosecuted, and convicted. The AYA’s independent investigation, supported by various community leaders, maintains that Aljan consistently handed over all suspects and weapons to the authorities, making his subsequent incarceration a baffling and infuriating reversal of justice.
The group is demanding a transparent and public review of his case. They warned that the persecution of individuals who protect their communities hinders national progress and security efforts. “Arewa will not be silent while its heroic son suffers in prison,” the statement affirmed, emphasizing their commitment to fighting for justice for Aljan and all those contributing to national security.
The case has been reported in various outlets, with sources such as Sahara Reporters detailing the ongoing concerns surrounding the hunter’s conviction.
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