CITAD Condemns Arrest of Three Gombe Influencers, Demands Immediate Release

The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has strongly condemned the arrest and continued detention of three social media influencers in Gombe State Abu Ayrin, Musa Khale, and Alhaji Audu Atampa Bajoga reportedly over posts made online.

In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Yunusa Zakari Ya’u, the organization said credible media reports indicate that the individuals were arrested 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 three have allegedly been detained for several days without any formal charges made public, describing the situation as troubling and inconsistent with constitutional provisions guaranteeing freedom of expression and due process.

“The use of law enforcement agencies to target individuals for peacefully expressing their views online undermines democratic norms and threatens civic space,” the statement said.

The group also raised concerns over reports suggesting that powerful interests may have influenced the arrests, including allegations linking the action to former Minister Isa Ali Pantami. CITAD stressed that law enforcement agencies must not be used to settle personal scores or silence dissent in a democratic society.

CITAD outlined three key demands:
The immediate and unconditional release of the detained individuals unless they are promptly charged before a court of competent jurisdiction.

Full transparency from the Nigeria Police Force on the legal basis for their arrest and continued detention.

Respect for constitutional rights, including freedom of expression and protection from arbitrary arrest.

The organization further 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.

According to CITAD, the Nigeria Police Force must demonstrate professionalism, political neutrality, and strict adherence to the rule of law.

“Nigeria’s democracy depends on protecting, not punishing citizens who exercise their constitutional rights,” the statement added, noting that the organization will continue to monitor developments and engage relevant stakeholders to ensure accountability.