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<p>The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) strongly condemns the arrest of Abubakar Isah Mokwa, a postgraduate student of the Department of Agricultural Economy and Extension at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai (IBBUL), reportedly on the orders of the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, for allegedly criticizing the governor on Facebook.</p><div class="G3ZXafl4" style="clear:both;float:left;width:100%;margin:0 0 20px 0;"><script async src="https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script>

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<p>Abubakar was arrested at his off-campus lodge in Lapai and subsequently transferred to the State Police Command Headquarters in Minna. The police claimed his arrest was based on allegations of “cyber bullying and cyberstalking,” but it is clear that this is another attempt to criminalize free expression and silence dissenting voices in the state.</p>
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<p>CITAD finds this action deeply disturbing and unconstitutional. The arrest of a student for merely expressing his opinion online is a clear violation of Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression and to hold opinions without interference.</p>
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<p>Sadly, 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. In August 2025, the state government suspended Badegi 90.1 FM for alleged criticism of the governor, while journalists such as Yakubu Mustapha of Peoples Daily and Mustapha Nasiru Batsari of Voice of America (VOA) have faced harassment and assault for performing their duties.</p>
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<p>CITAD therefore calls for the following actions:</p>
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<p>The immediate and unconditional release of Abubakar Isah Mokwa.<br />
The Federal Government, particularly President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to call the Nigeria Police Force to order and ensure that security agencies do not continue to serve as instruments of political oppression.<br />
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to investigate this case and warn officers against the arbitrary arrest and detention of citizens for expressing their opinions in a democratic society.<br />
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to respect the principles of free speech and desist from harassing and intimidating activists, journalists, and media houses. Instead, he should focus on addressing developmental challenges and improving governance in Niger State.</p>
<p>Freedom of expression is the foundation of democracy. The continued misuse of state power to silence critics and young people undermines democratic governance and civic trust.</p>
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<p>In a statement by its executive Director Malam YZ Yau CITAD reaffirms its commitment to defending digital rights, promoting online safety, and ensuring that Nigeria remains a country where citizens can freely express their views without fear of intimidation or persecution.</p>
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