The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has condemned the arrest of Abubakar Isah Mokwa, a postgraduate student at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai (IBBUL), allegedly for criticizing the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, on social media.
Mokwa, who is studying Agricultural Economics and Extension, was reportedly picked up by security operatives at his off-campus residence in Lapai and later transferred to the State Police Command headquarters in Minna.
The police said his arrest was based on allegations of cyberbullying and cyberstalking.
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However, CITAD,described the action as “deeply disturbing and unconstitutional,” insisting that the arrest represents an attempt to criminalize free expression and silence dissenting voices in the state.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Y.Z. Ya’u, CITAD said the arrest of a student for expressing his opinion online violates 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.
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The organization noted that the incident reflects a growing pattern of intolerance towards criticism under Governor Bago’s administration.
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It recalled that in August 2025, the Niger State Government suspended Badegi 90.1 FM over alleged criticism of the governor, while journalists including Yakubu Mustapha of Peoples Daily and Mustapha Nasiru Batsari of Voice of America (VOA) have reportedly faced harassment for performing their duties.
CITAD called for the immediate and unconditional release of Mokwa and urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that the Nigeria Police Force does not continue to serve as an instrument of political oppression.
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The group also appealed to the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the circumstances surrounding the arrest and to caution officers against arbitrary detention of citizens for expressing their opinions in a democratic society.
CITAD further advised Governor Bago to respect the principles of free speech and focus on improving governance and addressing developmental challenges in the state, rather than intimidating journalists and activists.
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“Freedom of expression is the foundation of democracy,” the statement read. “The continued misuse of state power to silence critics and young people undermines democratic governance and civic trust.”
CITAD reaffirmed its commitment to defending digital rights, promoting online safety, and ensuring that Nigerians can freely express their opinions without fear of intimidation or persecution.