The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Sokoto Zone, has condemned the arrest and arraignment of Dr Kurfi of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, describing the incident as a threat to academic freedom and freedom of expression.
The union’s zonal chairman, Professor Abubakar Sabo Yabo, raised the concern while addressing journalists in Sokoto. He alleged that operatives of the Department of State Services arrested Kurfi on the instruction of the Katsina State Government over comments he made about insecurity in the state.
Yabo said the matter had become a serious concern for academics and members of the public, arguing that the handling of criticism about security raised questions about the balance between law enforcement and the protection of citizens’ rights.
According to the ASUU official, government should focus on addressing the security, economic and social challenges affecting residents rather than taking actions that could discourage public discussion of those problems.
He said the union recognised the importance of applying the law, but warned that legal and security institutions should not be used to intimidate people for expressing their views.
Yabo argued that using state security agencies against an academic over comments on insecurity could undermine both freedom of expression and academic freedom. He called on the Katsina State Government to concentrate on finding solutions to the challenges confronting the state.
The union also appealed to the relevant security agencies and the judiciary to handle Kurfi’s case fairly and impartially. Yabo stressed that the legal process should be allowed to proceed in accordance with due process, without prejudice or political interference.
“Let it be on record that Nigerians are watching as the legal processes take place. Justice to one is justice to all, while injustice to one is injustice to all,” he said.
ASUU warned that it would not remain silent if members were subjected to what it considers harassment under the guise of law enforcement. Its position reflects broader concerns about how academics and other citizens can discuss insecurity and government performance without facing undue pressure.
The union’s statement, however, represents its account of the circumstances surrounding Kurfi’s arrest. The allegations about the Katsina State Government’s role were not independently established in the information provided.
Attempts to obtain a response from the Katsina State Government were reportedly unsuccessful as of the time the original report was published.
The case is expected to proceed through the relevant legal channels. ASUU’s appeal centres on ensuring that the proceedings are conducted fairly while safeguarding the rights of the accused and respecting the role of the courts in determining the matter.
Deborah Adeyefa
