Nigerian Army detaining our member unlawfully – Amnesty raises alarm

Amnesty International has expressed deep concern over the unlawful detention of Nigerian Army member Lawrance Zongo in Plateau State since October 5, 2026. The organization asserts that the Nigerian Army is denying Zongo the right to communicate with his lawyer and family, raising serious questions about his fundamental rights and respect for the rule of law.

In a statement, Amnesty International alleges that soldiers have blocked a lawyer from gaining access to Zongo on Friday. The organization is deeply troubled by the military's apparent disregard for the rule of law, as Zongo has been held without allowing him to communicate with his loved ones or seek legal counsel. Amnesty International emphasizes that Zongo's potential involvement in an unspecified activity does not justify keeping him detained incommunicado or denying him access to his legal representatives.

The group urges the Nigerian Army's 3 Division in Jos to immediately release Zongo or at least grant him the opportunity to contact his family and legal counsel. Amnesty International is deeply concerned that Zongo may be at grave risk due to his prolonged detention without due process.