By Erewunmi Peace

A man identified as Sunday Afolabi from Ekiti State has allegedly been detained by the Nigerian Army after he reportedly protested the poor welfare and support conditions of soldiers serving in conflict zones. The incident has raised serious concerns among his family members, who fear for his safety.

According to the family, Afolabi was arrested on October 20, 2025, along NTA Road in Ado-Ekiti by a military officer. He was said to have been taken first to Akure, Ondo State, before being transferred to Abuja, where he has remained in custody.

Relatives claimed that during a video call on October 22, Afolabi appeared handcuffed, bleeding, and visibly weak, sparking fears that he may have been tortured. His brother, Sunkanmi Afolabi, said the family has been unable to reach him since then and are worried about his health, especially because he suffers from asthma and requires regular medical care.

The family insists that Afolabi’s arrest followed his strong criticism of the alleged neglect of Nigerian troops and his public call for improved welfare for soldiers deployed in volatile regions.

As of the time of this report, the Nigerian Army has yet to release an official statement addressing the allegations or clarifying the circumstances surrounding Afolabi’s detention.

The incident has renewed public debate around freedom of expression and the rights of citizens to speak on issues affecting national security personnel.