The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) 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. In a statement, the organization’s Executive Director, Y.Z. Ya’u, described the arrest as a clear attempt to silence dissenting voices and criminalize free expression. Mokwa was taken from his off‑campus lodge in Lapai and transferred to the State Police Command Headquarters in Minna, where police accused him of cyber‑bullying and cyberstalking—allegations CITAD says are unfounded.
CITAD notes that this incident is part of a growing pattern of media repression and intolerance toward criticism under Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s administration. Recent examples include the suspension of Badegi 90.1 FM for allegedly criticizing the governor and the harassment of journalists such as Yakubu Mustapha and Mustapha Nasiru Batsari. In response, CITAD is demanding Mokwa’s immediate and unconditional release and urging the federal government to prevent security agencies from being used for political repression.
The organization calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct the Nigeria Police Force to respect citizens’ rights and on the Inspector‑General of Police to investigate the case. It also urges Governor Bago to uphold freedom of expression and cease targeting activists, journalists, and media outlets. CITAD 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.
Moving forward, 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 underscores the importance of safeguarding freedom of expression in Nigeria, particularly in the digital sphere, as the situation develops and authorities respond to these growing concerns over media repression in the region.
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