Detained Student Activist Battles Health As Fight With Niger Govt Escalates

Isah Mokwa, a postgraduate student of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, is now reportedly struggling with declining health inside detention — 25 days after he was arrested for criticising Niger State Governor Umar Bago online.

What began as a social media post has spiralled into a political and legal storm that now threatens his wellbeing.

His lawyer, Ibrahim Usman Wali, told the court on Monday that the Department of Public Prosecutions had requested extra time to take over and review the case. He rejected the request, warning that Mokwa’s continued detention has crossed every legal boundary. He said the Police failed to follow the Administration of Criminal Justice Law, the magistrate court lacked jurisdiction from the start, and the remand order was defective.

Wali insisted that Section 228 of the ACJL, which allows extended remand, cannot apply because the entire process was flawed. He reminded the court that Mokwa had been detained without a proper investigation, without a filed charge, and in violation of his constitutional rights. “He is breaking down,” Wali said, describing how the student’s condition has worsened behind bars.

Mokwa’s troubles began after he criticised Governor Bago on social media. Reports revealed that both the Governor and Mokwa’s Local Government Chairman, Abdullahi Muregi, were named as petitioners in the FIR, raising concerns that political scores may have driven the arrest. Sources earlier told reporters that the Police acted on direct pressure from the Governor to bundle Mokwa into detention on allegations ranging from cybercrime to terrorism and thuggery.

Human rights groups have condemned the case. Amnesty International called the charges bogus and warned that the detention sends a chilling message to Nigerians who speak up against powerful figures. The Police also reportedly delayed releasing the FIR, a move that stalled efforts to apply for bail.

On Monday, the magistrate court admitted there were procedural defects but invoked Section 231 of the ACJL to keep Mokwa in custody while waiting for the Attorney-General’s advice. Wali pushed back fiercely, saying the law cannot be used to prolong an unlawful detention. He argued that Mokwa’s rights had already been breached and that the court should not compound the injustice.

Despite his failing health, the student has reportedly remained mentally strong, determined to fight what his supporters describe as political persecution. Wali said the DPP’s involvement, the High Court bail application, and the court’s acknowledgment of errors show that the tide is beginning to shift. He insisted that the law stands firmly on Mokwa’s side.

The case has been adjourned to November 28, 2025. As his health continues to worsen, activists fear that justice may come too late if decisive action is not taken to secure his release.