CITAD demands Immediate Release of Kano Journalist Danuwa Rano, Condemns Arrest as Threat to Press Freedom

The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has strongly condemned the arrest and continuous detention of journalist Ibrahim Ishaq Danuwa Rano, who is the founder of Danuwa Rano TV, demanding his immediate and unconditional release.

Dependable NG reports that the journalist was reportedly arrested by police officers from Zone One Command in Kano over an online audio commentary. In the audio, Danuwa Rano allegedly accused a government official of collecting bribes from individuals attempting to meet with the state governor.

CITAD, in a statement signed by its Executive Director, Y.Z. Ya’u, on Sunday, expressed serious concern, noting that the journalist did not mention any names in the commentary. However, it was later alleged that the Director-General of Protocol to the Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, filed a complaint that led to the arrest. The organization described the police action as an act of intimidation and a misuse of power aimed at silencing journalists and shrinking Nigeria’s civic space.

“This action by the police is not only unjust but a dangerous sign of intolerance towards free expression and accountability,” CITAD stated.

The group further emphasized that freedom of expression and media independence are constitutional rights in Nigeria and must not be violated. Stating that the police should be a protector of rights, not an instrument of oppression, CITAD stressed that arresting a journalist for carrying out his professional duty undermines the democratic process and discourages vital investigative reporting.

“We call on the Nigeria Police Force and the Kano State Government to release Ibrahim Danuwa Rano without conditions and to stop harassing journalists who speak truth to power,” the statement concluded. The organization also urged all civil society organizations, media bodies, and human rights defenders to stand firm against what it views as a growing suppression of press freedom in the country.