CITAD condemns arrest of Gombe influencers, demands immediate release
Kola Oyelere Kano
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The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has condemned the arrest and continued detention of three social media influencers in Gombe State, describing the action as a violation of constitutional rights and democratic principles.
In a statement issued on Friday, CITAD identified the detained individuals as Abu Ayrin, Musa Khale, and Alhaji Audu Atampa Bajoga, who were reportedly arrested over posts shared on social media platforms.
The statement was signed by Y.Z. Ya’u, Executive Director of the organisation, who said CITAD would continue to monitor the situation and engage relevant stakeholders to ensure accountability.
According to the organisation, credible media reports indicate that the trio were apprehended by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force and are currently being held at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Gombe State Police Command.
CITAD expressed concern that the individuals have allegedly remained in custody for several days without any formal charges made public.
The organisation described the development as deeply troubling and inconsistent with constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression and due process under Nigerian law.
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It warned that deploying law enforcement agencies to target individuals for peacefully expressing their views online undermines democratic norms and shrinks civic space.
CITAD also raised concerns over reports suggesting that the arrests may have been influenced by powerful interests, including allegations linking the action to former Minister Isa Ali Pantami.
The group stressed that security agencies must not be used to settle personal scores or silence dissenting voices in a democratic society.
In its demands, CITAD called for the immediate and unconditional release of Abu Ayrin, Musa Khale, and Alhaji Audu Atampa Bajoga, unless they are promptly charged before a court of competent jurisdiction in line with the law.
It also urged the police to provide full transparency regarding the legal basis for the arrests and continued detention.
Furthermore, the organisation called on the new Inspector-General of Police to caution officers and commands nationwide against the misuse of police powers to intimidate citizens or suppress lawful online expression.
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It emphasised that the police must uphold professionalism, political neutrality, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
CITAD reaffirmed that Nigeria’s democracy depends on protecting, rather than punishing, citizens who exercise their constitutional rights.