Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has urged President Bola Tinubu to reinstate the 38 Nigerian Army officers who were forced to retire prematurely eight years ago.
Falana, who represents the 38 soldiers, also urged Tinubu to take legal notice of the fact that the National Industrial Court’s order and the National Assembly’s resolutions ordering the officers’ reinstatement were not followed by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari at the time.
Falana made this claim in a conversation with reporters in Lagos on Wednesday.
Due process was not followed in the 38 officers’ case, according to the human rights attorney, who also pointed to injustice and a lack of a fair hearing.
Consequently, he requested their restoration on the basis that they had committed no wrong.
The Nigerian Army compelled the commanders to retire on June 9, 2016, Falana added, claiming that nine major generals, eleven brigadier-generals, seven colonels, and eleven lieutenant colonels were all impacted by the unfair retirement.
They were accused by the military authorities at the time of partisanship during the 2015 general election of arms procurement fraud and endangering national security.

I would like to notify President Tinubu, as the Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, that the fate of the 38 Army officers under the previous administration is unbelievable and regrettable,” Falana stated.
“Using this platform, I also want to let you know that the infamous action taken against the 38 officers was unlawful and unwarranted.
“The Nigerian Army cannot and should not be permitted to disregard the National Assembly’s determination on the 38 officers and the legitimate and enforceable order of the National Industrial Court.
“Mr. President, you must step in immediately because if you don’t, the early retirement of these 38 officers will give leading military officers the false impression that serving Nigeria selflessly is not worthwhile.
“Additionally, we have sent a comprehensive letter to the President through Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, requesting justice and their reinstatement under the resolutions of the National Industrial Court and the National Assembly. Our earnest belief is that AGF Fagbemi will take the necessary action and advise the President appropriately.”