By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Arewa Youth Alliance for Progress and Development (AYAPD) has called for an investigation into allegations of human rights violations by a private security firm contracted to monitor pipelines in the Niger Delta.

These allegations include unlawful arrests and mistreatment of local residents.

At a press conference yesterday, Ambassador Umar Babayaro emphasised the need for both government and international organisations to investigate these claims.

According to him, the AYAPD has received numerous complaints from local youths regarding the actions of the security firm.

The group provided specific examples of alleged human rights abuses, including unlawful detention and mistreatment.

The organisation criticised the federal government’s oversight of private security firms, asserting that such actions may violate the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. They urged the government to take measures to protect the rights of youths in the Niger Delta.

The AYAPD is calling for an investigation into the security firm and for measures to ensure the safety and rights of Nigerians in the region.

Babayaro stated: “We hereby call on all relevant government and non-governmental organisations, including international bodies, to look into these issues before they escalate.

“We seek a thorough investigation into the activities of the security company as they relate to criminal justice and the protection of human rights.

“It has come to our attention that the security outfit is now arresting innocent Nigerians at will and detaining them.

“Victims arrested by Tantita Security Services are allegedly held in detention without being charged in a court of law, as prescribed by the Constitution.

“Prominent cases include Moses Richard from Shekri, Peter, and Boma Samuel, who are victims of these human rights infringements.

“Others include Jolomi Abechukwu from Tisin Community, who was arrested alongside his friend Bade and taken into captivity in Oporoza.

“We are bringing this anomaly to the attention of the federal government and calling on international organisations to help protect the rights of Nigerian youths.”