Amnesty Condemns Detention of IBB University Student Over Social Media Post on Governor Bago
By Editor In-cheif| Public Eye News | October 30, 2025
MINNA, NIGER STATE– Amnesty International has strongly condemned the detention of Abubakar Mokwa, a student of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) University, Lapai, who has been remanded in prison until November 17, 2025, for allegedly posting a critical comment about Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State on social media.
The global human rights organization described the arrest and continued detention of the student as “an outrageous violation of fundamental human rights,” emphasizing that freedom of expression including criticism of public officials is protected under Nigeria’s Constitution and international law.
“Criticizing a president or governor is not a crime. The arbitrary detention of Abubakar Mokwa and plans to subject him to a politically motivated trial reflect the alarming decline of human rights across Nigeria,” Amnesty International said in a statement.
The organization urged Governor Umaru Bago to immediately halt what it called “a disturbing pattern of attacks on civic freedoms” and to order Mokwa’s unconditional release.
According to Amnesty, Nigerian politicians are increasingly abusing their positions by using the police and judiciary to intimidate and silence critics. “Peaceful protesters on the streets are often met with force, and now online voices are being repressed through arrests and prosecutions,” the group added.
Civil society groups have also echoed Amnesty’s call, warning that the shrinking space for free expression poses a grave threat to democracy. They insist that rather than silencing dissent, leaders should engage constructively with criticism to build public trust and accountability.
Public Eye News calls on the Niger State Government and all political leaders to respect the rule of law, uphold democratic values, and ensure that every Nigerian — regardless of status — can freely express opinions without fear of reprisal.
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