Table of Contents
- Condemnation of Arrest
- Violation of Rights
- Details of the Arrest
- Warning Against Silencing Citizens
- Call to Action
- Encouragement for Responsible Expression
The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has condemned the apprehension of two young men in Tofa Local Government Area of Kano State over a Facebook post purportedly criticizing the local council chairman.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Y.Z. Ya’u on Wednesday, the organization characterized the arrest as a breach of citizens' digital rights and the freedom of expression protected under the Nigerian Constitution.
According to CITAD, the two youths, Murtala Garba Doka and Shamsu Safiyanu Lambu, were detained on Monday following orders from the Tofa Local Government Chairman, Hon. Ibrahim Yakubu Addis, after they posted on Facebook criticizing him for allegedly neglecting the Lambu–Banki–Yarimawa–Jakata road project, which was reportedly approved by the state government at a cost of ₦240 million.
The statement indicated that the duo was initially held at the Tofa Divisional Police Station before being moved to the Kano State Police Command Headquarters in Bompai for further investigation.
CITAD cautioned that such actions are becoming a troubling trend aimed at suppressing citizens who voice their concerns regarding poor governance.
“Detaining citizens for voicing their opinions on public matters, particularly through social media, is a severe infringement of their digital rights and fundamental freedoms,” the statement asserted.
“Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every Nigerian the right to freedom of expression, and no public official should undermine that right.”
The organization demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the two detained youths and urged the police to refrain from being used for political agendas.
“The police must not be transformed into instruments of intimidation or political persecution. Public officials should learn to accept criticism as a vital component of democracy and accountability.”
The group also encouraged social media users to continue expressing their opinions responsibly while advocating for transparency and good governance.
“We will persist in our efforts to support a safe and open internet space where citizens can engage freely without fear of harassment.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for the arrest of the two youths?
The two youths were arrested for a Facebook post that allegedly criticized the local council chairman for neglecting a road project.
What does CITAD say about the arrests?
CITAD condemned the arrests as a violation of digital rights and freedom of expression, urging for the immediate release of the detained individuals.
What rights does the Nigerian Constitution guarantee regarding freedom of expression?
Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every Nigerian the right to freedom of expression, which should not be undermined by public officials.
