By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
The Youth Assembly of Nigeria (YAN), Bauchi State Chapter, has demanded for the immediate release of a young broadcaster in Bauchi State, Ukkasha Rabiu Magama, condemnimg, in strong terms, any form of politically motivated arrest targeted at young people across the State by policians who are not ready for opposition criticisms.
The condemnation was contained in a statement signed by Rt. Hon. Sani Danaudi Mohammed, Speaker, Youths Assembly of Nigeria, Bauchi State Chapter, in reaction to the arrest of one Ukkasha Rabiu Magama.
He wrote, “We demand the immediate release of Ukkasha Rabiu Magama, if he is indeed in custody, or a clear public statement from relevant authorities on his whereabouts and the reasons for his arrest.”
The YAN described the purported arrest of Ukasha Rabiu Magama, as a threat to democracy and Youths freedom stating that,” We received with profound sadness the purported news of the arrest of Ukkasha Rabiu Magama.”
It stated that,”This represents a sad, unfortunate, and highly condemnable development in our democratic journey. At a time when Nigeria’s democracy should be maturing, acts that undermine the constitutional guarantees of free speech and civic participation must not be allowed to take root.”
“We wish to remind all authorities and stakeholders that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression, freedom of association, and freedom from unlawful arrest or detention,” It added.
The YAN stressed that,”These are not privileges granted by government but inalienable rights protected by the supreme law of the land. To arrest a young Nigerian for expressing his views or participating in civic discourse is to assault the very foundation of our democracy.”
It added, “As youths who are in search of jobs, employment, and empowerment, our constituency deserves not an arrest that is politically inclined but rather a platform to thrive. The energy, creativity, and courage of young Nigerians should be harnessed for nation-building, not suppressed through intimidation.”
It added, “The future of Bauchi State and Nigeria depends on how we treat our youth today. Criminalizing legitimate expression only deepens disillusionment and widens the trust deficit between citizens and the state.”
YAN stressed that, “We strongly advise any aggrieved persons or disguised elements behind this purported act to seek redress through the courts. The judiciary remains the constitutionally recognized avenue for laying complaints and resolving disputes.”
“Resorting to arbitrary arrest, harassment, or unlawful detention is a dangerous departure from due process. The citizens of Nigeria, and Toro Local Government in particular, do not deserve this unlawful treatment under any guise whatsoever,” It warned.
YAN stated,”In a constitutional democracy, the law must be allowed to function without fear or favor. No individual, group, or institution is above the law. If Ukkasha Rabiu Magama has committed any offense known to law, the proper procedure is to charge him before a competent court where he can defend himself.”
It stressed that,”Anything outside this established process amounts to abuse of power and a violation of his fundamental rights. We must not normalize impunity in the name of politics.”
It then called on security agencies to remain professional, neutral, and guided strictly by the Constitution and their rules of engagement, stressing, .”They must resist being used as tools for political vendetta or suppression of dissent. Similarly, we appeal to political actors across all divides to rise above pettiness and embrace tolerance.”
It added that, “Bauchi State has enough challenges with unemployment, poverty, and insecurity. Our collective energy should be channeled toward solving these problems, not creating new ones.”
YAN concluded, “We stand for justice, democracy, and the dignity of Nigerian youth. We will continue to monitor this situation and will not hesitate to explore all legal and civil avenues to ensure that the rights of our youth are protected.”
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