The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) strongly condemns the arrest and continued detention of three social media influencers in Gombe State; Abu Ayrin, Musa Khale, and Alhaji Audu Atampa Bajoga reportedly over posts made on social media.
According to credible media reports and information available to CITAD, the individuals were arrested by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force and are currently being held at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Gombe State Police Command. Disturbingly, they have allegedly remained in custody for several days without any formal charges made public.
CITAD views this development as deeply troubling and inconsistent with the constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression and due process under Nigerian law. The use of law enforcement agencies to target individuals for peacefully expressing their views online undermines democratic norms and threatens civic space.
We are particularly concerned by reports suggesting that the arrests may have been influenced by powerful interests, including allegations linking the action to former Minister Isa Ali Pantami. Law enforcement agencies must never be deployed to settle personal scores or silence dissenting voices in a democratic society. In light of the above, CITAD demands the following:
1. Immediate and unconditional release of Abu Ayrin, Musa Khale, and Alhaji Audu Atampa Bajoga, unless promptly charged before a court of competent jurisdiction in line with the law.
2. Full transparency from the Nigeria Police Force regarding the legal basis for the arrests and continued detention.
3. Respect for constitutional rights, including the right to freedom of expression and protection from arbitrary arrest.
CITAD also calls on the new Inspector-General of Police to urgently caution officers and commands across the country against the misuse of police powers to intimidate citizens or suppress lawful online expression. The Nigeria Police Force must uphold professionalism, political neutrality, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
Nigeria’s democracy depends on protecting, not punishing citizens who exercise their constitutional rights. We will continue to monitor the situation and work with relevant stakeholders to ensure accountability.
Signed
YZ Ya’u
Executive Director
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