Abubakar Idris, a Kaduna-based trader known as Comrade Danhabu, was arrested last week after criticizing Governor Uba Sani on Facebook for allegedly disregarding President Bola Tinubu’s directive to withdraw police personnel from VIP protection duties.

The Facebook Post

Danhabu, a seller of phone accessories, posted a message highlighting that several high-ranking officials under Governor Sani—including commissioners, the Speaker, the Chief of Staff, and other dignitaries—continue to enjoy police protection, despite the President’s directive.

In his post, Danhabu questioned the governor’s commitment to enforcing the presidential order, asking why government officials under Sani’s leadership had not adhered to the directive. He said, “Up till now, the government of Uba Sani has not stopped walking with police!” He also pointed out that despite President Tinubu’s order to withdraw police protection from VIPs due to security concerns, key officials in Sani’s administration continued to flout the rule.

The Arrest

Two days after Danhabu’s Facebook post, he was arrested at the market where he conducts his business and taken to the Kaduna State Police Headquarters. Sources revealed that during his interrogation, the Commissioner of Police (CP) personally questioned him. According to a family member, the CP received a phone call during the interrogation, which led to a decision to remand Danhabu in a police cell.

“They suspect that the CP received instructions from higher authorities. After the call, the CP ordered Danhabu to be taken into custody,” the family member explained. Danhabu was subsequently taken to a Magistrate Court, where the judge issued a remand order, directing that he be held in prison until January 13, 2026.

Family Impact

Danhabu’s arrest has caused significant distress for his family. He is married with two children, and his elderly mother, who is reportedly in poor health, is deeply affected by his detention.

The Content of the Facebook Post

In his post, which sparked the arrest, Danhabu had written:

“Last week, the President announced the withdrawal of security personnel due to the shortage of officers and rising security threats across the country. But it is surprising that the governor, who is close to the President, Senator Uba Sani, has not enforced this order in his state. Up till now, government officials under Uba Sani—such as the Chief of Staff, SSG, Speaker, and all commissioners—are still moving around with police protection. This is not only illegal but also a big offense, considering the presidential order to withdraw such protection.”

Danhabu continued, “Does the governor know about this, or is he turning a blind eye to it? The law that allows police officers to provide protection is only meant for the governor or deputy, but under Uba Sani, this order is being flouted.”

Public Reaction

Danhabu’s arrest has sparked concern about freedom of expression in the state. Many critics have condemned the action, suggesting that it reflects an overreach of authority and an attempt to silence dissent. The trader’s supporters argue that his arrest for simply expressing his views on a public issue is a violation of his rights.