Jigawa State, Nigeria — July 13, 2025
Police in Jigawa State have confirmed the arrest of Abubakar Gossima, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), following a controversial social media post. Although the police have not disclosed the exact reason for his arrest, associates claim it is linked to a comment critical of a fellow party member’s political ambition.
According to PREMIUM TIMES, Gossima was intercepted by police while traveling on Thursday along the Kafin Hausa/Bulangu highway in Bulangu town, located in Kafin Hausa Local Government Area. His friend, Mustapha Bulangu, said the arrest stemmed from Gossima’s online comment opposing a party member’s bid for a seat in the House of Representatives.
“We are not so politically backwards that we will warrant voting for that irresponsible boy as our member in the House of Representatives,” Gossima allegedly said in Hausa, referring to the politician identified as Mr. Suleiman.
Initially, the police spokesperson in Jigawa, Lawan Adam, stated on Friday that he had not been briefed. However, by Saturday, he confirmed the arrest and clarified that Gossima had been transferred to police headquarters in Abuja, not held at the state command as previously speculated.
Adam explained that the arrest was executed by the Special Investigation Unit of the Nigeria Police Force, a division with national jurisdiction responsible for handling sensitive and high-profile cases.
“The arrest was carried out in accordance with due process and the police’s constitutional responsibilities,” Adam stated.
The case has sparked concern among political observers and civil rights advocates about freedom of expression and the increasing scrutiny of social media use in Nigeria. The police have not confirmed whether formal charges have been filed.
An official statement from the Special Investigation Unit is expected to follow as inquiries continue.
