•Atiku and Tinubu
Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has strongly condemned the arrest and detention of social media critic Abubakar Salim Musa, describing it as a “stark example” of government-led repression.
In a statement released today, Monday, January 12, 2026, Atiku called for the immediate and unconditional release of Musa, who is widely known by his social media handle @AM_Saleeeem.
The former Vice President warned that the current administration is increasingly “baring its fangs” against those who express dissent through public protests or online criticism, reports Daily Independent.
Atiku argued that Musa’s only “offense” was his persistent and vocal concern regarding the worsening security situation in Northern Nigeria.
He criticised the government for choosing prosecution and intimidation over addressing the substantive security issues raised by citizens.
“Abubakar’s only ‘offense’ was his consistent and legitimate criticism of the deteriorating security situation in Northern Nigeria and across the country,” Atiku stated. “Instead of addressing these serious concerns, the government’s response has been to arrest him and subject him to what Amnesty International rightly describes as ‘bogus charges and a sham trial.’”
The former vice president highlighted that Musa’s case is not an isolated incident.
He cited a growing trend where journalists, students, entertainers, and even members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have reportedly faced harassment for voicing opinions critical of the President or his family.
Atiku warned that such actions pose a direct threat to the nation’s democratic health, particularly as Nigeria approaches a critical election cycle.
“This dangerous trend undermines the very foundations of democracy, which rest on the protection of fundamental human rights and freedom of expression,” he added.
“As the nation approaches a critical general election, neither the people nor the opposition can operate effectively in an atmosphere of fear and repression.”
