The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) expresses deep concern over the continued detention of Sani Waspapping and Abubakar Adamu over social media commentary relating to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East by the Department of State Services (DSS).
According to credible reports, one of the two detainees is facing prosecution on questionable charges. We have also received disturbing reports that several individuals who have expressed critical views about the policies of the United States and Israel have been invited or summoned by the DSS.
CITAD considers these actions deeply troubling and inconsistent with the constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression. Section 39 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees the right of citizens to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference. Criticism of the policies of any government—whether domestic or foreign—falls squarely within the ambit of protected speech and should not be criminalized.
Equating criticism of the policies of the governments of the United States or Israel with incitement is a dangerous distortion that risks undermining democratic freedoms and shrinking civic space in Nigeria. Such actions create a climate of fear that discourages citizens from exercising their legitimate right to express opinions on matters of public interest.
As an organization committed to the protection of digital rights and freedom of expression, CITAD is particularly concerned about the implications of these actions for online civic engagement. The targeting of individuals for their views expressed on social media sets a troubling precedent and raises serious questions about the respect for digital rights in Nigeria.
We therefore urge the DSS to immediately honor the rights of citizens to peacefully express their opinions and to avoid actions that weaken constitutionally protected freedoms.
CITAD also calls on the Nigerian authorities to ensure that security agencies operate strictly within the bounds of the law and respect Nigeria’s obligations under both the Constitution and international human rights frameworks that protect freedom of expression.
Nigeria must remain a country where citizens can freely express their opinions without fear of intimidation, harassment, or arbitrary detention.
