Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Henry Owen | Stone Reporter News
Lapai, Niger State – Abubakar Mokwa, a student of IBB University Lapai, has been remanded in prison until 17 November 2025 over an alleged social media post criticizing Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State. The detention has drawn sharp condemnation from Amnesty International Nigeria, which described the case as part of a broader assault on human rights and freedom of expression in the country.
In a statement, Amnesty International emphasized that criticizing a governor or any public official is not a crime, warning that Mokwa’s arbitrary detention and plans for a trial based on unfounded charges reflect an alarming erosion of civil liberties in Nigeria.
The human rights group urged the Niger State government to immediately end such attacks on fundamental freedoms, comply with both the Nigerian constitution and international law, and respect the right to freedom of expression.
“Politicians in Nigeria are increasingly abusing their power by silencing critics,” the statement read. “Youth engaged in peaceful protests or expressing opinions online often face violent reprisals or judicial manipulation. Abubakar Mokwa must be released immediately and unconditionally. Governor Umaru Bago should be listening to his critics rather than using the police to suppress them.”
Amnesty International called on authorities to uphold the rights of citizens to speak freely, asserting that stifling online voices undermines democracy and justice in Nigeria.
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