From Mika’il Tsoho, Dutse
The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) expresses deep concern over the unlawful arrest and continued detention of Zakariyya Kabeer Gwagwarwa, a Corps member from Kano State currently serving in Katsina State.
The call was contained in a statement signed by the executive Director of CITAD, YZ Ya’u and made it available to news men.
The statement said, available reports indicate that Mr. Gwagwarwa was taken into custody by the police in Katsina on the directive of member of the House of Representatives, representing Nassarawa Federal Constituency, Kano State. His only alleged offense was a Facebook post stating: “Company Pampers must go Sabuwar Nassarawa 2027 Insha Allahu.” This post is in no way incites violence or undermines public order; rather, it falls within his constitutionally protected right to freedom of expression.
The statement maintained that, After several days in detention without access to his family, Zakariyya was eventually brought before a court. Disturbingly, instead of securing his release, the case was adjourned for two weeks, thereby extending his unlawful detention.
“Equally troubling are credible reports that Zakariyya has been subjected to mistreatment in custody, including allegations of physical assault by the police. Such actions are unacceptable and demand urgent redress.
“The reported torture of youths is disturbing, especially following the recent death of a young Imam from Dorayi while in police custody. Police custody should never be a place where individuals who have not been found guilty by any competent court are subjected to inhuman or extra-judicial torture”, the statement said.
CITAD therefore demands the immediate and unconditional release of Zakariyya Kabeer Gwagwarwa. We further call on the Nigerian judiciary to uphold the principles of fairness, impartiality, and professionalism, and to resist being used as a tool for political persecution. The police must also remember their constitutional duty to protect the rights of citizens rather than serve as instruments of intimidation for political office holders.
Nigeria’s democracy can only thrive where the rights of citizens are respected and the rule of law is upheld. Suppressing voices of ordinary Nigerians for exercising their right to free expression is a dangerous step toward authoritarianism and must not be tolerated.
