By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The appeal case involving three Christian personnel of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), who were arrested and court-martialed over alleged links to the formation of a self-defense brigade for churches in Jos, Plateau State, has suffered a serious setback due to financial constraints.
The brigade was reportedly formed to educate churches on counter-terrorism strategies and self-defense mechanisms for defenseless citizens.
A statement titled “End Targeted Attacks Against Christians Now!!!” was made available to journalists in Kaduna yesterday by an aggrieved Christian group operating under the hashtag #ReleaseReverendTankoNow.
According to the statement, Rev. Tanko Barnabas Bulus, a serving member of the Nigerian Air Force, initiated the formation of the self-defense brigade to help churches enhance their security. Rev. Tanko was arrested in September 2021 on allegations of conducting illegal operations and engaging civilians in unauthorized activities. The Joint Task Force in Plateau State carried out the arrest, detaining him alongside some brigade members. While most of them were released on bail after significant pressure, Rev. Tanko was transferred to the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA).
During the ongoing case, two other serving NAF personnel, MWO Tumba James and MWO Chiroma Ayuba, were also implicated due to their association with the brigade. A court-martial, which lasted over a year, concluded in October last year, sentencing the three personnel to imprisonment.
The statement further revealed that an appeal had been filed but financial constraints have slowed the process. It also raised concerns about Rev. Tanko’s deteriorating health, particularly his struggle with diabetes and lack of adequate medical attention. Despite being granted access to legal representation, the financial burden of legal fees has hindered progress. Additionally, all of Rev. Tanko’s assets, including his vehicles, have been seized by the Nigerian Air Force.
The Christian group behind the statement is calling for urgent intervention to ensure justice and medical care for Rev. Tanko and his co-defendants.
