The Nigerian Army has reportedly detained human rights defender Lawrence Zongo after he visited a military hospital in Jos to see relatives attacked by gunmen in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State. Zongo, a volunteer with Amnesty International, was arrested on Monday, October 5, 2026, at the military facility within Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Rukuba Barracks. He had gone to the facility to assist family members who were attacked in Meyango, Bassa LGA, on Sunday night.
According to sources familiar with the incident, one of Zongo's first cousins died from injuries sustained in the attack before he arrived at the hospital late Monday morning. The sources alleged that soldiers arrested Zongo while he was still at the facility and have since kept him in custody without charge. They further alleged that he has been denied access to his lawyers and family members, describing the detention as incommunicado.
Sources also claimed that Zongo was wearing Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses when he visited the military facility, suggesting that this may have contributed to the soldiers' decision to detain him. However, this claim has not been independently verified. The circumstances surrounding Zongo's detention, the specific reason for his arrest, and whether any formal charge has been brought against him remain unclear.
The Nigerian Army has yet to publicly state its position on the reported detention. The case has raised concerns over the treatment of human rights defenders and the need for authorities to respect due process and the fundamental rights of persons in custody. Human rights defenders and organizations have expressed worry about the increasing reports of arbitrary arrests and detention of individuals, especially those who are vocal about their advocacy work.
Zongo's detention has sparked widespread concern among human rights groups and individuals, who are calling for his immediate release. They argue that his arrest and detention are a clear example of the government's failure to respect the rights of its citizens, particularly those who are working to promote and protect human rights.
The incident has also raised questions about the level of security in Plateau State, particularly in the Bassa Local Government Area, where the attack on Zongo's family members occurred. The area has experienced several incidents of violence in recent years, and residents have expressed concerns about the lack of effective security measures to protect them.
As the situation continues to unfold, human rights organizations and advocates are urging the Nigerian Army and other authorities to take immediate action to respect Zongo's rights and ensure his safe release. They are also calling for investigations into the circumstances surrounding his detention and the attack on his family members.
Key points
- The Nigerian Army detained human rights defender Lawrence Zongo without charge after he visited a military hospital in Jos.
- Zongo was arrested while visiting relatives who were attacked by gunmen in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.
- The detention has raised concerns over the treatment of human rights defenders and the need for authorities to respect due process.
