Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has criticized the prolonged detention of Maryam Bukar following her release after more than eight months in custody over allegations linked to a leaked video call involving Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Adeyanju disclosed that Bukar regained her freedom on Friday after what he described as “several months of persistent efforts” by his team and other advocates. Bukar had reportedly been detained over claims relating to a leaked video call with the Nigerian president.
According to Adeyanju, the length of her detention raises serious concerns about arbitrary detention and abuse of power. He emphasized that Nigerian law requires that anyone accused of an offence must be brought before a court within 48 hours.
“The unnecessary detention of any citizen undermines the rule of law,” Adeyanju said in a statement. “Where there are allegations against anyone, the law is clear that such a person must be brought before a court within 48 hours.”
He stressed that respect for due process is essential in a democratic society and warned that prolonged detention without trial violates fundamental rights guaranteed to citizens.
Adeyanju also called on the government and security agencies to adhere strictly to the rule of law in their operations.
“No one should be above the law, and no one should be beneath it,” he added, urging authorities to always respect due process and the constitutional rights of Nigerians.
