The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has condemned the arrest and continued detention of Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Comrade Danhabu, by the Kaduna State Police Command over a social media post.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its Executive Director, Y. Z. Ya’u, the civil society organisation described the arrest as an abuse of power and an attack on constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of expression and participation in public discourse.
CITAD said criticism of public officials and government actions, whether online or offline, is a legitimate democratic activity and should not be criminalised.
“This arrest represents a troubling pattern of arbitrary arrests, intimidation and harassment of activists, journalists and ordinary citizens across the country, often justified under cybercrime or other vague allegations,” the organisation said.
According to CITAD, such actions undermine public confidence in law enforcement agencies and weaken democratic norms, warning that the shrinking of civic space poses a threat to accountability and good governance.
The group called on the Nigeria Police Force to immediately and unconditionally release Mr Idris and to refrain from being used to silence dissenting voices.
“Law enforcement agencies must uphold the rule of law and protect citizens, not intimidate them for expressing legitimate concerns,” the statement said.
CITAD also urged Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani to prioritise governance issues such as security, livelihoods, service delivery and citizens’ welfare, rather than presiding over the arrest of critics.
“Silencing critics does not resolve governance challenges; it only deepens public frustration,” the organisation said.
CITAD said accountability, openness and respect for human rights remain essential for sustainable development and democratic stability in Nigeria.
