The Take-It-Back Movement (TIB) has raised concerns over the arrest of its organizer in Kano State, Zubair A. Zubair.

In a post on its social media platform, TIB reported that Zubair was arrested by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) early Thursday. While the reasons for his arrest remain unclear, sources suggest it may be related to a critical Facebook post he made about the government.

TIB stated that Zubair is being transferred to Abuja and demanded his immediate and unconditional release from DSS custody.

TIB organizer in Kano, Zubair A. Zubair, was arrested by the DSS earlier today. The reason for his arrest remains unknown, but sources informed us it was connected to a Facebook post that had been critical of the government. The activist is being moved to Abuja. We demand his immediate and unconditional release now!” TIB said in its statement.

Zubair, who has been critical of the Tinubu-led administration, was taken into custody by DSS agents.

Barrister Harun Magashi, Zubair’s lawyer, confirmed the transfer to the Nigerian Police Headquarters in Abuja.

“Zubair was arrested yesterday by the DSS in Kano. Initially, he was held by the DSS, but they handed him over to the police in Abuja,” Magashi explained.

When asked about the reason for the arrest, Magashi said, “We are yet to confirm the charges against him. However, we suspect it is connected to his active participation in the End Bad Governance protests and his outspoken stance against the current administration.”

Nura Muhammad, another activist and close associate, also confirmed Zubair’s arrest.

“Zubair has been fearless in his advocacy for the people and has consistently criticized the policies of the Tinubu administration. His arrest does not come as a surprise, but it is a clear attack on free speech,” Nura said.

Zubair is a known member of the Take-It-Back Movement, an organization focused on activism and civic engagement in Nigeria.

At the time of compiling this report, efforts to reach the DSS and the Police Headquarters for comment had been unsuccessful. Activists in Kano and beyond have called for Zubair’s immediate release, raising concerns over his safety and the increasing crackdown on dissent in the country.

Kano Times