WIP Demands Transparency On NFSS Commander’s Detention, Threatens Peaceful Protest

The World Institute for Peace (WIP) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding clarity over the continued detention of the Commander-General of the Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS), warning that failure to provide answers will trigger a nationwide peaceful protest.

Addressing journalists at a press conference held on May 2, 2026, at the organisation’s headquarters in Osogbo, the Executive Director of WIP, Lamina Kamiludeen Omotoyosi, insisted that Nigerians deserve to know the circumstances surrounding the arrest and prolonged detention of the NFSS leader.

“If within 48 hours our demand is not met, the public should be in the know. We must understand what is going on. Nigerians should not be kept in the dark,” he said.

“This individual has been volunteering in service to the nation, and his continued detention without clear explanation raises serious concerns.”

Lamina disclosed that the group would mobilise for a peaceful protest to both the National Assembly and the Presidential Villa should authorities fail to respond within the stipulated timeframe.

“We will take our protest to the National Assembly and the Presidential Villa, and we will continue until he is released or the appropriate authorities explain why he has been held for over 15 days,” he added.

The organisation described the situation as troubling, especially given the voluntary role played by NFSS operatives in supporting security efforts across forested and rural communities.

While acknowledging ongoing efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, including the Forest Guard Initiative approved in May 2025, WIP expressed concern over actions linked to the Office of the National Security Adviser under Nuhu Ribadu.

The group called on the President to urgently intervene by directing the immediate release of the detained NFSS commander, emphasizing that the continued detention risks discouraging volunteer participation in national security efforts.

WIP further noted that the NFSS, with an estimated 70,000 volunteers nationwide, plays a critical grassroots role in intelligence gathering and rapid response, particularly in areas affected by banditry and kidnapping.

The organisation also urged the President to assent to the NFSS Bill already passed by the National Assembly, stating that formal legal recognition would enhance coordination within Nigeria’s security framework.

Omotoyosi revealed that a formal letter had been submitted to the Presidency earlier in the day, detailing the group’s concerns and demands, with copies made available to the press for public circulation.

He also questioned the legality of the detention, noting that the matter is already before the courts and is being handled by human rights lawyer Barrister Femi Falana.

“Why detain a man whose case is already in court, especially one who has dedicated years to voluntary national service? This is unjust and unacceptable,” he said.

Also speaking, the Director of New Media at WIP, Adeniyi Faith Ayomide, reiterated the group’s position, stressing the need for transparency.

“If our demands are not met, Nigerians deserve to know what is happening behind the scenes. If we are not taken seriously, we will have no option but to proceed with a peaceful protest,” he said.

The World Institute for Peace maintained that its intervention is in line with its mandate to promote peace, protect human rights, and encourage citizen participation in national development, warning that silence on the matter could erode public trust in security institutions.