By Mustapha Salisu
The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has condemned the arrest and continued detention of journalist Ibrahim Ishaq Danuwa Rano by officers of the Nigeria Police, Zone One Command, Kano.
Danuwa, who is the founder of the online media platform Danuwa Rano TV, was reportedly apprehended following an online audio commentary in which he allegedly claimed that a certain government official was collecting money from individuals seeking access to the state governor.
Although the journalist did not mention any names in the audio, it was alleged that the Director-General of Protocol to the Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, filed a complaint that prompted the arrest.
CITAD described the action as unwarranted and a dangerous sign of intolerance and misuse of power aimed at silencing journalists in Kano State and across Nigeria.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Y.Z. Ya’u, the organization expressed deep concern that the arrest represents yet another attempt to stifle press freedom and discourage investigative journalism.
CITAD noted that freedom of expression and media independence are constitutionally protected under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, both of which Nigeria is obligated to uphold.
CITAD further emphasized that the Nigeria Police should act as a protector of citizens’ rights, not as an instrument of oppression. The organization described the arrest as a gross abuse of power and a violation of democratic principles, stressing that journalists must not be intimidated, arrested, or harassed for performing their constitutional duty of informing the public.
The Centre called on the Nigeria Police Force and the Kano State Government to ensure the immediate and unconditional release of Ibrahim Ishaq Danuwa Rano and to desist from acts that threaten press freedom.
It also urged civil society organizations, media associations, and human rights defenders to collectively resist the growing pattern of press suppression in the country.
CITAD reaffirmed its commitment to defending freedom of expression, digital rights, and the safety of journalists in Nigeria, vowing to continue speaking out against any form of repression, censorship, or intimidation targeted at journalists, activists, or citizens exercising their legitimate rights.