Institute Condemns Continued Detention Of Commander-General Of Nigeria Forest Security Service

An international non-governmental organisation focused on promoting peace, conflict resolution, human rights, and humanitarian services, the World Institute for Peace (WIP) has raised the alarm over the alleged continued detention of the commander-general of Nigeria’s Forest Security Service (NFSS), Mr Osatimehin Joshua Wole, along with several of his colleagues, for over 15 days.

Addressing journalists yesterday at its headquarters in Osogbo, Osun State, the executive director of WIP, Dr Lamina Kamiludeen Omotoyosi, who commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the Forest Guard initiative to boost security in forested and rural communities, called for his prompt intervention in the matter.

According to him, these detained individuals have dedicated themselves, voluntarily, to supporting security operations across Nigeria—especially in forest regions that have become hotspots for banditry and kidnapping.

He noted that their detention for an extended period would raise serious concerns and could send the wrong signal to thousands of patriotic Nigerians willing to contribute their time and effort toward safeguarding their communities.

“The World Institute for Peace remains confident in the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and trusts that timely intervention will further advance peace, stability, and national unity”.

The human rights organisation, however, threatened to occupy the National Assembly in a peaceful protest if their demand for the release of Mr Osatimehin Wole was not effected within 48 hours.

The group called on the international community, development partners, and peacebuilding organisations to take note of the situation and support efforts to promote community-based security, the rule of law, and democratic accountability in Nigeria.