CITAD Cautions DSS Against undermining freedom of expression

The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has expressed deep concern over reports that Mr. Shehu Ahmed Buwayi, a resident of Azare, Bauchi State, is currently being targeted for arrest following an article he published criticising the administrative conduct of the Vice Chancellor of Sa’adu Zungur University, Gadau (SAZU). A statement by the Executive […]

The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has expressed deep concern over reports that Mr. Shehu Ahmed Buwayi, a resident of Azare, Bauchi State, is currently being targeted for arrest following an article he published criticising the administrative conduct of the Vice Chancellor of Sa’adu Zungur University, Gadau (SAZU).

A statement by the Executive Director of the centre, YZ Ya’u, said the attempt to arrest of  Buwayi is part of a worrying pattern of digital repression in Nigeria.

CITAD called on the National Human Rights Commission, Civil Society Actors, Journalists and Press Freedom Organizations to closely monitor the case and speak out against the growing use of state institutions to suppress online speech.

However, the centre demanded the immediate halt to any attempts to arrest or harass Mr. Buwayi.

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It also urged for independent investigation into the alleged collaboration between the University management and the DSS in targeting a private citizen.

According to credible sources, the Bauchi State command or th Department of State Services (DSS) is plotting to track down Mr. Buwayi for exercising his constitutional right to freedom of expression.

The statement reads, |Mr. Buwayi’s article, titled “Sabotage to Governor Bala Abdulkadir Muhammad’s Mission to Rescue Sa’adu Zungur University Gadau from Maladministration: Those Behind,” criticizes alleged corruption, maladministration, and poor infrastructure at the university.

“It raises issues of public concern, including diversion of university funds, broken infrastructure, and students’ welfare — all of which deserve attention, not suppression.

“While one may disagree with the tone or content of the article, resorting to state-sponsored intimidation is unacceptable. Citizens must be able and allowed to voice legitimate grievances about public institutions, especially educational institutions, without fear of persecution.

“This attempted arrest is part of a worrying pattern of digital repression in Nigeria, where individuals, especially young people, journalists, and activists are increasingly being harassed for what they post online. In many cases, these actions are justified under vague interpretations of cybercrime laws, despite international rulings that such applications violate human rights.”