The wife of a detained university lecturer, Mrs. Aisha Abdullahi, has made a heartfelt appeal to the Bauchi State Government for the immediate release of her husband, Dr. Musa Abdullahi, who was recently remanded in custody over a controversial post made on social media.
Dr. Abdullahi, a respected academic at the Bauchi State University, was reportedly arrested last week following a Facebook post that authorities allege contains content critical of certain state policies. He has since been remanded by a magistrate court pending further investigation and legal proceedings.
Addressing journalists in Bauchi on Friday, Mrs. Abdullahi described her husband's detention as "unjust and emotionally devastating" for their family. "My husband is a law-abiding citizen and a dedicated educator who has always used his voice to advocate for development and good governance," she said tearfully. "We are pleading with the government to temper justice with mercy and release him so that he can return to his family and his students."
The arrest has sparked a wave of concern among academic and civil rights communities, with many calling for respect for freedom of expression and due process. Several advocacy groups and student associations have expressed solidarity with Dr. Abdullahi, urging the state government to ensure that the matter is handled transparently and in line with constitutional rights.
Legal experts have also weighed in, cautioning against the growing trend of criminalizing online speech. “Freedom of expression is a fundamental right protected under Nigeria’s constitution,” said Barrister Halima Usman, a human rights lawyer. “Criticism of government policies—when not inciting violence—should not be met with punitive measures.”
Mrs. Abdullahi concluded her appeal by calling on Governor Bala Mohammed and relevant state authorities to consider the social and emotional toll the situation is taking on the family, particularly their young children.