Nigerian Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar called for the immediate release of Salim Musa, arrested last week in Abuja after police tracked him from Zamfara over social media criticism of government security failures in the northern part of the country.
Amnesty International labeled it an abduction, with family denied access, while police say he ignored invitations following a December 19 petition and was arraigned January 8 on unclear charges, remanded until January 13.
Abubakar accuses the Tinubu administration of ‘repression on dissent,’ in a statement on Monday while he called on international community to query the present administration for accountability and end violence in the country.
Part of his statement read: “This case is yet another stark example of the repressive nature of the President Bola Tinubu administration, which continues to bare its fangs against dissent, whether expressed through public protests or online criticism.
“Abubakar’s only “offense” was his consistent and legitimate criticism of the deteriorating security situation in Northern Nigeria and across the country.
“Rather than address these serious concerns, the government’s response has been to arrest him and subject him to what Amnesty describes as “bogus charges and a sham trial.”
“Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. Numerous Nigerians, including journalists, schoolchildren, entertainers, and even National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members have faced arrest, assault, and intimidation by the police and other security agencies simply for criticizing the President or members of his family.
“This dangerous trend undermines the very foundations of democracy, which rest on the protection of fundamental human rights and freedom of expression.
“Nigeria cannot claim to be part of the free world while its citizens are routinely arrested, assaulted, and intimidated for voicing criticism of their government.
“As the nation approaches a critical general election, neither the people nor the opposition can operate effectively in an atmosphere of fear and repression.
“I therefore call on the Tinubu administration to immediately and unconditionally release Abubakar Salim Musa and all others detained for exercising their constitutional rights.
“I also urge the government to halt the ongoing pattern of arbitrary arrests and intimidation targeting critics, journalists, and opposition voices.
“I urge the international community, particularly countries and organizations that champion democracy and human rights, to hold the Tinubu regime accountable and demand an end to these violations.
“I encourage fellow patriots, civil society groups, and all Nigerians of conscience to join this demand and stand firmly against any further erosion of our freedoms.” Abubakar added
