A support group backing President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the acting Director General of the National Telecommunication Commission, Amb. Adejare Adegbenro, from detention.
According to reports, Adegbenro has been held by the police since April 26, 2024, following a petition against him by a group within the security agency.
The support group, operating under the name Tinubu Shettima Divine Mandate Initiative (TSDMI), criticized Adegbenro’s prolonged detention without being arraigned in court, stating that such action violates his fundamental human rights.
Speaking at a news conference in Abuja on Saturday, the South West Zonal Coordinator of TSDMI, Mr. Mutiu Abolade, emphasized the need for President Bola Tinubu to intervene and facilitate Adegbenro’s release, as he is the group’s grand patron and is currently unlawfully detained by the Nigerian police.
Describing Adegbenro as a respected diplomat and an advocate for peace, security, and progress, the group asserted that he has been unjustly deprived of his freedom for too long.
They stated, “His detention violates not only his fundamental human rights but also flagrantly disregards the principles outlined in the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, of which Nigeria is a signatory.”
The group strongly condemned the blatant violation of Adegbenro’s rights and called for his immediate and unconditional release.
“Adegbenro, as our Grand Patron, has tirelessly dedicated himself to the renewed hope agenda of the President and to the service of our nation. He has fostered international cooperation and advanced Nigeria’s interests on the global stage.
“It is imperative that President Tinubu and the Nigerian Police uphold the rule of law and adhere to international protocols by releasing Adegbenro without further delay.
“Justice must prevail, and the rights of every Nigerian citizen, especially distinguished diplomats like Ambassador Dr. Adegbenro, must be protected at all costs,” the group insisted.
