The Centre for Information Technology and Development has condemned the arrest of Abubakar Isah Mokwa, a postgraduate student at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, for allegedly criticizing the Niger State Governor on social media. According to a statement by the organization’s Executive Director, Y.Z. Ya’u, the arrest is a clear attempt to silence dissenting voices and criminalize free expression.

Mokwa was arrested at his off-campus lodge in Lapai and transferred to the State Police Command Headquarters in Minna, with the police alleging cyber bullying and cyberstalking. However, CITAD claims these allegations are unfounded. The organization notes that this incident is part of a growing pattern of media repression and intolerance towards criticism under Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s administration.

In recent months, Niger State has witnessed several instances of media repression, including the suspension of Badegi 90.1 FM for allegedly criticizing the governor, and harassment of journalists such as Yakubu Mustapha and Mustapha Nasiru Batsari. CITAD is demanding the immediate and unconditional release of Mokwa and urging the federal government to prevent security agencies from being used for political repression.

The organization is calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct the Nigeria Police Force to respect citizens’ rights and for the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the case. Additionally, CITAD is urging Governor Bago to uphold freedom of expression and stop targeting activists, journalists, and media outlets. The organization emphasizes that freedom of expression is the foundation of democracy and that the continued misuse of state power to silence critics undermines civic trust and democratic governance.

CITAD will continue to protect digital rights, promote online safety, and ensure that Nigerians can express their opinions freely without fear or harassment. The organization’s stance highlights the importance of safeguarding freedom of expression in Nigeria, particularly in the digital sphere. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the federal government and Niger State authorities will respond to CITAD’s demands and address the growing concerns over media repression in the region.