The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has condemned the arrest of a postgraduate student at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai (IBBUL), allegedly ordered by Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for criticizing him on Facebook.
In a statement signed by CITAD’s Executive Director, Y.Z. Ya’u, the group described the arrest of Abubakar Isah Mokwa, a student in the Department of Agricultural Economy and Extension, as deeply disturbing and unconstitutional.
Abubakar was reportedly picked up from his off-campus residence in Lapai and transferred to the State Police Command in Minna. Police said the arrest followed allegations of cyberbullying and cyberstalking.
However, CITAD said the charges were a pretext to silence dissent, calling the move another attempt to criminalize free expression and suppress critical voices in Niger State.
“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,” Ya’u said.
The organization said the incident was part of a growing pattern of media repression under Governor Bago’s administration, citing previous cases of intimidation against journalists and media houses.
In August 2025, Niger State authorities 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 were reportedly harassed and assaulted.
CITAD urged the immediate and unconditional release of Abubakar and called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Inspector-General of Police to ensure that security agencies do not continue to serve as instruments of political oppression.
“Freedom of expression is the foundation of democracy,” Ya’u said. “The continued misuse of state power to silence critics and young people undermines democratic governance and civic trust.”
The rights group also urged Governor Bago to respect free speech and focus on addressing developmental challenges and improving governance in Niger State rather than intimidating journalists and activists.
CITAD reaffirmed its commitment to defending digital rights and promoting online safety, saying it would continue to advocate for a Nigeria where citizens can freely express their views without fear of intimidation or persecution.