The Centre for Information Technology and Development, CITAD, has condemned the arrest and continued detention of a Kaduna-based activist, Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Comrade Danhabu, by the Kaduna State Police Command.
CITAD described the development as a serious threat to democratic space and citizens’ fundamental rights in Nigeria.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, YZ Ya’u, the organisation said the arrest amounted to an abuse of power and an attack on constitutionally guaranteed freedoms, particularly freedom of expression and public participation.
According to CITAD, criticism of public officials and government policies, whether online or offline, should not be criminalised in a democratic society, stressing that such engagement remains a core pillar of good governance.
The group expressed concern over what it described as a growing trend of arbitrary arrests, intimidation and harassment of activists, journalists and ordinary citizens, often justified with vague cybercrime allegations.
CITAD warned that such actions undermine public confidence in law enforcement agencies and weaken democratic values.
The organisation called on the Nigeria Police Force to immediately and unconditionally release Abubakar Idris, urging the police to resist being used as a tool to silence dissenting voices.
CITAD also advised Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, to prioritise issues of security, livelihoods, service delivery and citizens’ welfare rather than targeting critics calling for transparency and accountability.
Reaffirming its commitment to democracy, CITAD stressed that accountability, openness and respect for human rights are critical to sustainable development and democratic stability in the country.
