A prominent civil society organization, Citizens United Against Terrorism (CUAT), has called for the swift prosecution of government officials allegedly connected to Bashir Hadejia, a suspected gun-runner and cross-border criminal.
The demand follows Hadejia’s recent arrest by security agencies, who discovered a substantial cache of gold and other incriminating evidence reportedly linking him to subversive activities against the Nigerian government.
Dr. Emmanuel Agabi, CUAT’s convener, praised the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and security agencies for their role in apprehending Hadejia. However, Dr. Agabi stressed the importance of conducting a comprehensive investigation to identify and prosecute any government accomplices.
CUAT expressed concern that Hadejia’s alleged connections to influential government figures could lead to interference in the investigation. The group urged the immediate suspension or removal of any cabinet members or appointees implicated in the case.
In addition, CUAT questioned Hadejia’s reported manipulation of public opinion through media channels and called for a thorough investigation into his financial and communications links with key figures involved in protests.
The group warned that failure to fully investigate and prosecute those involved could result in a scenario similar to the rise of Boko Haram, where early inaction allowed the group to regroup and expand its operations.
“It is well known that Bashir Hadejia has also been implicated as a key figure behind the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests, which were allegedly used as a cover for widespread acts of arson, looting, and violence across several states,” the statement read.
“We at Citizens United Against Terrorism (CUAT) view Bashir Hadejia as a mere front in a larger conspiracy to destabilize Nigeria. We are determined to uncover the individuals pulling the strings behind him. He is a puppet, and we demand the identification of his puppet masters.”
CUAT also called on the NSA, the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies to remain vigilant, ensuring that Hadejia’s associates do not have the opportunity to regroup.
“As a nation, we must learn from the history of Boko Haram and prevent a similar situation from arising by ensuring that all those involved are held accountable,” the statement concluded.
