January 8, 2026 | News | SUNTV Global Channel
Global human rights organisation Amnesty International has condemned the arbitrary arrest of Nigerian activist Abubakar Salim Musa by police in Abuja, describing it as a blatant abuse of power and a violation of the fundamental right to freedom of expression.
According to reports, Salim, a young Nigerian known for exercising his right to critique government policies on social media, was monitored and tracked by officers of the Gusau Central Police Command. Authorities reportedly did not issue any formal invitation, complaint, or allegation prior to his arrest, raising serious questions about the legality of their actions.
Salim’s lawyers had made repeated attempts to seek clarification from police amid heightened surveillance. While in Abuja, heavily armed security personnel allegedly tracked him to Sounders Suites in Apo Legislative Quarters, Zone E, and took him into custody.
He was reportedly detained at the notorious police facility known as ‘Abattoir’, where past detainees have alleged torture and mistreatment. When Salim’s family and legal representatives sought to confirm his whereabouts, the police denied having him in custody, deepening concerns about the transparency of the arrest.
Amnesty International Calls for Immediate Release
Amnesty International has demanded that Nigerian authorities release Abubakar Salim immediately and unconditionally, noting that criticizing government officials is a protected right under both Nigerian and international law.
“The Nigerian authorities must release Abubakar Salim immediately and unconditionally. No one should be punished for criticizing a government official. Abubakar Salim did not commit any crime and his arrest shows clear abuse of power,” Amnesty stated.
“It is perfectly within his right to criticize any government official — regardless of their position or status.”
The organisation emphasised that detaining individuals solely for exercising freedom of expression undermines the rule of law and violates international human rights standards.
“Detaining Abubakar Salim solely for expressing his opinions is unacceptable and demonstrates contempt for the rule of law. Under international law, the mere fact that a social media post is considered unpalatable by any official does not justify arbitrary detention,” the statement added.
Young Nigerians Facing Rising Threats
Amnesty further highlighted that young Nigerians are increasingly at risk of harassment, threats, and unlawful detention for expressing themselves online.
“The right of young people to freedom of expression in Nigeria is increasingly threatened. Many young Nigerians face attacks ranging from threats to arrests and illegal detention, all for simply expressing their opinions online. This is unlawful and unacceptable,” the organisation said.
The arrest of Abubakar Salim has sparked renewed concerns about the state of digital rights and civil liberties in Nigeria, with activists calling on authorities to respect constitutional protections and international human rights obligations.
