The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) strongly condemns the arrest and detention of human rights journalist and investigative reporter, Ahmed Isa Sakpe, by the Niger State Police Command over alleged cyberbullying and related offences reportedly linked to his professional work.
CITAD views this development as deeply troubling and symptomatic of a growing pattern where cybercrime-related provisions are increasingly invoked against journalists, activists, and citizens for expressing dissenting opinions or carrying out investigative reporting.
Freedom of expression and press freedom are guaranteed under Section 39 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and reinforced by Nigeria’s obligations under regional and international human rights frameworks. The use of security agencies to intimidate or silence journalists undermines democratic governance and weakens public trust in institutions.
We are particularly concerned by reports suggesting that the arrest may have been influenced by political actors within the Niger State Government. If true, such interference would represent a serious abuse of power and a direct assault on democratic accountability.
CITAD notes with concern a pattern of arrests and legal threats against critics and journalists in Niger State in recent times. Governance in a democratic setting demands tolerance of criticism, openness to scrutiny, and respect for the role of the media as a watchdog of society. Criminalising dissent sets a dangerous precedent and risks normalising repression.
We therefore call for:
1. The immediate and unconditional release of Ahmed Isa Sakpe.
2. An independent review of the circumstances surrounding his arrest.
3. An end to the use of cybercrime and defamation laws as tools for silencing journalists and critics.
4. Stronger safeguards to protect press freedom and civic space in Niger State and across Nigeria.
CITAD also calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently engage relevant authorities and ensure that state governments do not weaponise law enforcement institutions against journalists, activists, and citizens exercising their constitutional rights.
Democracy thrives on accountability. Journalists and human rights defenders must not be punished for speaking truth to power.
CITAD will continue to stand firmly in defence of digital rights, civic freedoms, and the protection of journalists across Nigeria.
Signed
Y. Z. Ya’u
Executive Director
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