Abubakar Isah Mokwa, a 29-year-old postgraduate student at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, Niger State, was arrested by the police following a formal criminal complaint alleging cybercrime offenses. Mokwa, known for his vocal criticism of Governor Umar Bago’s administration, was charged after posting on Facebook accusing the governor of dishonesty, advising him to address banditry rather than defend alleged state failings on television, and criticizing the governor's handling of security and social welfare issues.
In his online comments, Mokwa referred to Governor Bago as "Governor Amunike," a satirical nickname used to depict corrupt or ineffective politicians. The complainant reportedly filed the petition under Nigeria's cybercrime laws.
The Niger State Police Command confirmed his arrest, noting that Mokwa was detained by officers from the Lapai Division and transferred to the State Police Command Headquarters in Minna for further investigation. The police stated that the matter is ongoing, and updates will be shared in due course.
The arrest has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations. Amnesty International demanded Mokwa’s immediate and unconditional release, calling the arrest a violation of freedom of expression and an example of increasing authoritarianism in Niger State. The organization stressed that criticizing public officials is not a crime and warned against the misuse of law enforcement and judicial powers to suppress dissent.
Mokwa's colleagues report that police initially tried to locate him at home but arrested him later at his residence, highlighting concerns about intimidation of dissenting voices in northern Nigeria. The case continues to fuel debates on human rights, governance, and the state of freedom of speech in the country.