A lecturer at the Federal College of Horticulture, Dadin Kowa, identified simply as Ahmad, is reportedly being held in detention after allegedly criticizing the son of the Bauchi State Governor. His continued detention has sparked outrage from rights activists and civic groups.
The Gombe State chapter of the Take It Back (TIB) Movement has condemned Ahmad’s arrest, calling it illegal and a serious threat to academic freedom and free speech. In a statement released on Monday, state coordinator Thomas Umar demanded the lecturer’s “immediate and unconditional release.”
Ahmad was reportedly arrested in Bauchi State over comments he made online, which authorities claim were critical of the governor’s son. However, no official charges have been made public, raising concerns about the motive behind his detention.
“This arrest is a direct attack on free expression and democracy,” the TIB statement read. “It shows growing intolerance for dissent and endangers the independence of academic institutions.”
The movement also called on the Bauchi State Government and security agencies to uphold the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech.
“Freedom of expression is not a privilege; it is a right. Silencing citizens through unlawful detention is unacceptable in a democratic society,” Umar said.
Civil rights groups and students have also joined the call for Ahmad’s release, warning that the clampdown on free speech, especially within academic circles, is setting a dangerous precedent.
As of the time of filing this report, the Bauchi State Government and police authorities have yet to comment on the matter.
