In a statement issued on January 5, 2025, the Nigerian Army responded to growing public uproar over the detention of Nansak Selbar, a Point of Sale (POS) operator from Plateau State, who has been accused of facilitating kidnappings and acting as a conduit for terrorist groups. The Army categorically refuted circulating claims that Major General Nansak Shagaya, a senior officer in the region, was directly involved in Selbar’s arrest, emphasizing that the process followed proper legal procedures.
The case came to public attention after accusations emerged on social media, claiming that Major General Shagaya was facing potential repercussions for allegedly detaining Selbar without proper authority. These reports, described by the Army as “misleading,” suggested that Shagaya could be fined a staggering N100 million for the illegal detention. The Army moved quickly to dismiss such claims, urging the public to disregard the sensational narrative.
Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, explained the basis for Selbar’s detention, citing multiple criminal activities. “Nansak Selbar was arrested based on credible intelligence that linked him to several illegal operations. He has been implicated in facilitating kidnappings by receiving ransom payments on behalf of kidnappers. Furthermore, investigations revealed that he was involved in procuring military uniforms and equipment for bandits, as well as running a fraudulent recruitment scheme targeting innocent Nigerians,” Danja stated.
Selbar’s arrest was authorized under the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act (TPPA) 2022. According to the Army’s statement, a Motion Ex-Parte was filed in court to secure a detention order, allowing for further investigation. “The legal framework under which Selbar is being held is sound,” Lt. Col. Danja reaffirmed. “The investigation is ongoing, and he will be handed over to the relevant authorities for prosecution as soon as all necessary evidence is gathered.”
Army Denies Allegations of Illegal Detention and Media Misinformation
Amid the uproar on social media, one of the most vocal claims was a report by a journalist, Alex Giwa, which alleged that Major General Shagaya personally instructed Selbar’s detention. The Army was swift to counter these allegations, describing them as “spurious” and designed to undermine public trust in security agencies.
“The story suggesting Major General Shagaya’s involvement in this case is utterly false,” the Army’s statement read. “This misinformation is part of a wider attempt to stir emotions and create unnecessary panic. The detention of Selbar was carried out in accordance with the law, and Major General Shagaya had no direct role in the process.”
The Army also expressed concern about the potential harm caused by such false narratives. “Fake news can incite chaos and distrust, which is detrimental to our national security efforts,” Lt. Col. Danja warned. “We urge media houses, bloggers, and online platforms to act responsibly and verify facts before publishing stories that could escalate tensions.”
The Growing Challenge of Kidnapping and Terrorism Financing
The case of Nansak Selbar highlights the growing menace of kidnapping and its link to terrorism financing in Nigeria, particularly in regions such as Plateau State. The Nigerian Army has been increasingly vocal about the role of civilians and middlemen in facilitating these criminal activities.
Point of Sale operators, like Selbar, have come under scrutiny for allegedly acting as go-betweens for criminal syndicates. The Army claims that Selbar’s POS business was used as a front to move large sums of money, with proceeds from ransom payments often funneled through his accounts. Investigators are also examining his connections to terrorist groups, which are believed to have used his services to launder money and finance operations.
In addition to the kidnapping allegations, the Army pointed to Selbar’s involvement in the illegal procurement of military gear. “This is part of a wider network where civilians facilitate criminal groups by supplying them with military-grade equipment, making it harder for security forces to combat them effectively,” said a senior military officer close to the investigation.
Public Response and the Call for Transparency
While the Nigerian Army has defended its actions, the public response to Selbar’s detention has been mixed. Some Nigerians expressed support for the Army, recognizing the need for strict measures to combat terrorism. Others, however, remain skeptical, citing concerns about the increasing militarization of security matters and the potential for human rights abuses.
“This situation raises important questions about transparency and accountability,” said Amina Mohammed, a human rights advocate based in Lagos. “We understand the need for national security, but we also want to ensure that individuals are not wrongfully detained without clear evidence or due process.”
The Nigerian Army has promised to provide further updates on the case as investigations continue. In the meantime, they are urging the public to remain patient and allow the legal system to run its course.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety and security of every Nigerian,” Lt. Col. Danja concluded. “We urge all Nigerians to join hands with us in the fight against terrorism and criminality by providing critical information that can help root out these elements from society.”