Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the detention of Abubakar Isah Mokwa, a postgraduate student at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, who was arrested for criticizing Niger State Governor Umaru Bago. In a statement, Mr. Abubakar described the development as “outrageous and unacceptable,” accusing the governor of promoting intolerance under the guise of enforcing the Cybercrimes Act.
According to reports, Mr. Mokwa was arrested and detained for over a week for expressing his opinion about Governor Bago. The former vice president argued that the use of the Cybercrimes Act to justify the arrest sets a dangerous precedent, as the law is being used to silence dissent and suppress truth. He emphasized that defamation is a civil matter, not a criminal offense, and that using it for political purposes is a betrayal of justice and an assault on democracy.
The incident has sparked concerns about the growing intolerance and repression in the country. Mr. Abubakar accused the ruling party of misusing state power to intimidate citizens, journalists, and opposition voices through arbitrary arrests, which undermines democracy. He called for Mr. Mokwa’s immediate and unconditional release, urging Nigerians to defend free speech and civil liberty.
The Cybercrimes Act has been criticized for being used to muzzle critics and suppress truth. Mr. Abubakar argued that the law is being used as a tool for gagging citizens and waging war against democracy, freedom, and dissent. He called for the repeal or comprehensive amendment of the Act, stating that it is a convenient tool for silencing dissenting voices.
The detention of Mr. Mokwa has significant implications for free speech and civil liberty in Nigeria. The incident highlights the need for the protection of fundamental human rights and the importance of promoting a culture of tolerance and openness. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to calls for Mr. Mokwa’s release and the repeal of the Cybercrimes Act.