The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has condemned the arrest of Abubakar Isah Mokwa, a postgraduate student of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai (IBBUL), reportedly on the orders of Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, for allegedly criticizing him on Facebook.
CITAD, in a statement signed by its Executive Director, Y.Z. Ya’u, on Thursday, described the arrest as “deeply disturbing and unconstitutional,” calling it a blatant violation of the student’s right to free expression guaranteed under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution.
According to the statement, Mr Mokwa, who studies Agricultural Economy and Extension, was arrested at his off-campus residence in Lapai and later taken to the Niger State Police Command Headquarters in Minna. The police reportedly accused him of “cyber bullying and cyberstalking.”
CITAD, however, said the action was another example of the government’s attempt to “criminalize free expression and silence dissenting voices” in the state.
The organization also noted a growing trend of media repression under Governor Bago’s administration. It recalled that in August 2025, the 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) had been harassed and assaulted for carrying out their professional duties.
CITAD demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Mr Mokwa, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Inspector-General of Police to ensure that security agencies do not become tools of political oppression.
“The misuse of state power to silence critics undermines democratic governance and civic trust,” the statement said. “Governor Bago should respect the principles of free speech and focus on addressing developmental challenges rather than intimidating activists and journalists.”
CITAD reaffirmed its commitment to defending digital rights, promoting online safety, and ensuring that Nigerians can freely express their opinions without fear of persecution.
