Lance Corporal Martins Idakpini, who had been detained since June 2020 on the orders of the then Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, has been released.
Idakpini was released from army detention in Sokoto State and is now back at home after spending three years in military detention.
Speaking to Sahara Reporters via telephone, Idakpini said “I have been released – some hours ago. I am now at home. The new Chief of Army Staff (Maj Gen Taoreed Lagbaja) ordered my release.
“They came to release me today, led by my OC Band, Major Gideon. I am still making efforts to ensure that other soldiers are released. We have been forgiven already. I am at home at my barracks in Sokoto.
“I went for almost 12 to 13 court sittings and the case was statute-barred. I was arrested on June 23, 2020,” he added.
Idakpini was detained in June 2020, shortly after producing a viral video criticizing Buratai for the Nigerian Army’s failures to combat and eradicate the Boko Haram terrorist organization.