A Kaduna-based musician and social media influencer, Mycah Dangata, popularly known for spearheading the “Take Over Kaduna” movement, has reportedly been arrested and is currently being held by security operatives in Kaduna State for campaigning against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and demanding the next Kaduna governor from Southern Kaduna.
Dangata’s arrest has sparked outrage from his supporters, who allege political persecution and attempts to silence dissenting voices ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Dangata, whose real name is Zamani Musa, was reportedly picked up by security agents on Tuesday under circumstances that remain unclear.
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities in the state have not issued an explanation on the reasons for his arrest or the specific allegations against him.
However, sources familiar with the development said that the musician’s detention may be linked to his political activism and sustained campaign for a change in Kaduna State’s political leadership.
According to the sources, Dangata has used his music and social media platforms to promote the “Take Over Kaduna” movement, a political campaign that advocates greater representation for Southern Kaduna and openly supports former senator Danjuma Laah as a potential candidate in the 2027 governorship election.
The movement has reportedly gained traction among sections of the state’s population, particularly in Southern Kaduna, where longstanding complaints of political marginalisation, insecurity, and underrepresentation have fuelled calls for a power shift.
Supporters of Dangata argue that his advocacy has largely focused on issues of governance, equity, and inclusion.
They said his songs and public statements consistently challenged what he viewed as imbalances in political appointments and leadership structures across parts of the state.
Sources further alleged that Dangata had criticised decisions involving local government leadership appointments in some predominantly Christian communities, arguing that such actions ignored local demographics and undermined democratic processes.
His activism also reportedly included appeals to voters to reject candidates of the ruling APC, including opposition to any future re-election bid by Governor Uba Sani.
While authorities have yet to disclose the basis for his detention, some of his supporters claimed security agencies are attempting to build a criminal case around an alleged stolen mobile phone in order to justify his continued detention.
The allegation has not been independently verified, and no formal charges have been announced as of press time.
The arrest has reportedly generated widespread outrage, with Dangata’s supporters in the state said to have described his arrest as an attack on freedom of expression and political participation.