The Law Graduates Association of Nigeria (LAWGAN) has condemned the reported arrest and detention of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria student Mubarak Abdullahi and others, allegedly for wearing T-shirts inscribed “Tinubu Must Go,” and demanded their immediate release if no lawful basis exists for holding them.
In a statement signed by its President, Kayode Bello, and Public Relations Officer, Ojo Clement, the association described the arrests as deeply concerning, especially if the individuals were detained solely for expressing political opinions. It called on security authorities, including the Department of State Services, to state the legal grounds for the arrests and continued detention.
LAWGAN argued that peaceful criticism of a sitting government does not by itself amount to a criminal offence. The group cited Section 39(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression, including the right to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference. It also referenced Section 35(1) on the right to personal liberty, Section 42(1) prohibiting discrimination on grounds that include political opinion, and Section 46, which allows citizens to seek enforcement of fundamental rights in court.
“The Law Graduates Association of Nigeria (LAWGAN) expresses deep concern over the reported arrest and detention of Mubarak Abdullahi, a student of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and others, allegedly in connection with wearing T-shirts bearing the inscription ‘TINUBU MUST GO’,” the statement said. “LAWGAN considers the reported circumstances deeply concerning, particularly if the arrest and detention are based solely on the peaceful expression of a political opinion.”
The association said security agencies must disclose any specific criminal allegations against the detainees and treat them in line with the Constitution and other laws. Mere criticism of government or the peaceful expression of political views should not, without more, be treated as a crime, it added. It noted that Section 45 permits restrictions on fundamental rights only under constitutionally recognised circumstances and stressed that security powers do not place any agency above constitutional scrutiny.
LAWGAN demanded the immediate release of Abdullahi and the others if there is no lawful basis for their continued detention. It urged security agencies to exercise their powers within constitutional limits and called on Nigerians to remain peaceful while exercising rights to free expression and political participation. The group also appealed to human rights institutions, civil society organisations and members of the legal profession to monitor the case and protect the detainees’ fundamental rights.
Reaffirming its commitment to constitutional democracy and the rule of law, LAWGAN stated that the protection of fundamental rights must apply to all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation or opinion, adding that no person or government institution is above the Constitution.
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