National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Olumide Olusegun |
The Northern Comrades Movement of Nigeria (NCMN) has strongly condemned the recent arrest and arraignment of former NHIS Executive Secretary, Prof. Usman Yusuf, and 2023 AAC presidential aspirant, Omoyele Sowore.
The arrests, carried out on January 29, 2025, have been widely criticised as politically motivated attempts to silence dissenting voices against the current administration.
According to a statement made available to NATIONAL TELESCOPE by the National Secretary of the group, Comrade Ahmad Ashir on Friday, the NCMN National Chairman, Mal. Jabir Ibrahim Yaro, described the move as a clear case of political persecution, warning that such actions threaten Nigeria’s democracy.
“The arrest of these individuals is not just an attack on them, but an attack on democracy itself. This government must stop using intimidation to suppress critics.
Prof. Usman Yusuf has been an outspoken advocate for good governance, transparency, and accountability, frequently challenging government policies.
Similarly, Omoyele Sowore, a journalist and human rights activist, has been at the forefront of campaigns against injustice and oppression in Nigeria.
While Sowore has been granted bail, the NCMN insists that the Federal Government’s actions are undemocratic and detrimental to the country’s democratic principles.
Demanding the immediate and unconditional release of Prof. Usman Yusuf, the NCMN argued that his continued detention is an attempt to undermine democracy and discourage constructive criticism.
“We are deeply concerned about this dangerous trend where opposition voices are criminalized. Nigeria cannot afford to regress into an era of fear and suppression,” the group stated.
The movement has called on the Federal Government and relevant authorities to ensure the protection of citizens’ rights and respect for the rule of law.
“This is a crucial moment for Nigeria. We urge the government to release Prof. Usman Yusuf immediately and allow for a democratic space where criticism is not met with intimidation.”
