Activist Group Condemns Arrest of Lecturer Over Criticism of Governor’s Son

The Take It Back Movement has condemned the arrest of a Gombe lecturer over criticism of a governor’s son, calling it a violation of free speech and demanding his immediate release and legal safeguards for academic and civic freedoms.

The Gombe State chapter of the Take It Back Movement has strongly criticized the arrest of a lecturer from the Federal College of Horticulture, Dadin Kowa—identified as Ahmad—calling it a violation of free speech and academic freedom.

In a statement released Monday, state coordinator Thomas Umar described the arrest, which occurred in Bauchi State, as politically motivated and unlawful. Ahmad was reportedly detained for allegedly making critical remarks about the son of the Bauchi State Governor.

“This arrest is a direct attack on constitutional rights and a troubling sign of growing authoritarianism,” Umar said.

The group expressed concern over what it described as increasing intolerance toward dissent, particularly within academic environments.

Take It Back demanded Ahmad’s immediate and unconditional release, an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his detention, and stronger legal protections for freedom of expression.

“Freedom of expression is not a luxury—it is a guaranteed right. Arresting individuals for their opinions undermines democracy and must be firmly rejected,” the group emphasized.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, PUNCH