The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has strongly condemned the arrest of Abubakar Isah Mokwa, a postgraduate student at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai (IBBUL), for allegedly criticizing the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, on Facebook.
This was contained in a statement signed by Executive Director Y.Z. Ya’u on Friday.
CITAD described the arrest as a clear attempt to criminalize free expression and silence dissenting voices.
“Arresting Abubakar simply for sharing his views online is both alarming and unconstitutional,” Ya’u stated.
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He added, “This clearly breaches Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution, which protects every citizen’s right to free expression and the freedom to hold opinions without interference.”
According to reports, Abubakar was arrested at his off-campus lodge in Lapai and transferred to the State Police Command Headquarters in Minna.
The police alleged that he was involved in cyber bullying and cyberstalking, claims CITAD says are unfounded.
The rights group also highlighted that this is not an isolated incident. “Under Governor Bago’s administration, Niger State has witnessed a growing pattern of media repression and intolerance toward criticism,” the statement read.
“In August 2025, Badegi 90.1 FM was suspended for allegedly criticizing the governor, and journalists like Yakubu Mustapha of Peoples Daily and Mustapha Nasiru Batsari of Voice of America have faced harassment while performing their duties.”
CITAD demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Abubakar Isah Mokwa and urged the federal government to prevent security agencies from being used for political repression.
“We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct the Nigeria Police Force to respect citizens’ rights, and for the Inspector-General of Police to investigate this case and warn officers against arbitrary arrests,” Ya’u said.
The rights group also called on Governor Bago to uphold freedom of expression and stop targeting activists, journalists, and media outlets.
Ya’u added, “The governor should prioritize tackling development issues and enhancing governance in Niger State rather than intimidating the people.”
CITAD emphasized that freedom of expression is the foundation of democracy and warned that the continued misuse of state power to silence critics undermines civic trust and democratic governance.
The organization said it will continue to protect digital rights, promote online safety, and make sure Nigerians can express their opinions freely without fear or harassment.
