… Christian Group raises alarm.
…Calls for int’l support, media coverage, advocacy.
by Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Court Appeal against the three Christians, who are personnel of Nigeria Air Force, arrested and Court-martialed on alleged links with formation of small self-defence brigade and self-defence mechanisms for churches in Jos, Plateau State, suffered serious setback due to financial constraints.
The main objective of the formation of the brigade was to educate churches on counter terrorism strategies for defenseless patriotic citizens.
This was contained in a statement, titled, “End Targeted Attack Against Christians Now!!!,” made available to newsmen in Kaduna by some aggrieved Christian groups on under the guise of #releasereveredtankonow.
The statement revealed that, “Rev. Tanko Barnabas Bulus, who is also a serving member of the Nigerian Air Force, had formed a small self defence brigade.
“The main objective was to educate churches on self-defense mechanisms and counter-terrorism strategies for defenseless patriotic citizens.
“Rev. Tanko was arrested in September 2021, under the accusation of ‘conducting illegal operations and activities’ with civilians.
“The arrest was carried out by the Joint Task Force in Plateau State, along with some Brigade members. After significant pressure, the CAN Brigade members were released on bail, but Rev. Tanko was transferred to the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA).
During the ongoing case, two other serving personnel, MWO Tumba James and MWO Chiroma Ayuba, were also implicated due to their association with the Brigade.
A court-martial was convened, lasting over a year, and a legal counsel was hired for their defense. The judgment was passed in October last year, sentencing them to imprisonment.
“An appeal has been filed, but financial constraints have slowed the process,” it stated.
The key issue, according to the statement is that, “Rev. Tanko Barnabas Bulus is facing significant health challenges, including diabetes, with inadequate medical attention.
“Although, they were allowed access to legal representation, the financial burden of legal fees has hindered progress. All of Rev. Tanko’s assets, including vehicles, have been seized by the Nigerian Air Force,” it added.
The statement called for immediate support needed for Tanko and coy such as legal assistance, financial support, media coverage, advocacy from international bodies such as the United Nations.