Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar, Katsina Times February 8, 2025
Comrade Habibu Rumah, Chairman of the Struggle for Good Governance (SGG), today delivered a powerful statement condemning the ongoing detention of Professor Usman Yusuf, a vocal critic of the government, calling for his immediate release.
Addressing members of the press, Rumah emphasized that the continued incarceration of Professor Yusuf, without clear justification, represents an abuse of power and a violation of basic human rights. "The Struggle for Good Governance (SGG), an organization committed to advocating for accountability in Nigeria, is deeply concerned about this matter," Rumah said. "Professor Youssef is a distinguished freedom fighter, human rights advocate, and a government critic who is being unjustly detained."
Rumah's remarks followed the recent arrest of another prominent activist, Mahadi Shehu, and the prolonged detention of Professor Yusuf. He asserted that such actions are an attack on democratic values, aimed at silencing dissent and discouraging citizens from speaking out against government misconduct.
"By detaining these individuals, the government is sending a chilling message to all Nigerians who dare to criticize or question its policies," Rumah added. "This is an assault on our democracy and a direct attempt to weaken the principles of freedom that are supposed to be protected under our constitution."
Rumah was joined in his condemnation by Comrade Husaini Rafukka, a fellow advocate for human rights, and Amb. Khadijah Sulaiman Saulawa, who expressed similar concerns about the shrinking space for free expression in the country. Both activists reiterated their call for the government to honor its commitment to protecting the rights of all citizens, especially those who challenge the status quo.
"The arbitrary detention of individuals based on their political views must end," Rumah urged. "We call on the government to reaffirm its commitment to justice, democracy, and human rights, and to ensure that the voices of dissent are not silenced by fear of retribution."
The Struggle for Good Governance has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Professor Ousmane Youssef, as well as the restoration of the fundamental rights and freedoms of all Nigerian citizens.
As the situation continues to unfold, many are watching closely to see how the government will respond to growing calls for justice and respect for democratic principles.