By Chimezie Godfrey
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.
The affected individuals — Abu Ayrin, Musa Khale, and Alhaji Audu Atampa Bajoga — were reportedly arrested by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force over posts made on social media.
In a statement issued Friday in Kano and signed by its Executive Director, Y. Z. Ya’u, CITAD said the influencers are currently being held at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Gombe State Police Command without 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,” Ya’u said.
According to him, the use of law enforcement agencies to target individuals for peacefully expressing their views online undermines democratic norms and threatens civic space.
The organisation expressed concern over reports suggesting that powerful interests may have influenced the arrests, 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,” Ya’u stated.
CITAD demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the trio unless they are promptly charged before a court of competent jurisdiction in line with the law. It also called for full transparency from the police regarding the legal basis for their arrest and continued detention.
The organisation further urged 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.
“The Nigeria Police Force must uphold professionalism, political neutrality, and strict adherence to the rule of law,” the statement added.
CITAD said it would continue to monitor developments and work with relevant stakeholders to ensure accountability.