A Kaduna-based trader and social media commentator, Abubakar Idris, widely known as Comrade Danhabu, has regained his freedom after being detained over a Facebook post critical of Governor Uba Sani.
A source familiar with the matter confirmed that Danhabu was released on Wednesday. His arrest followed an online post in which he questioned the Kaduna State Government’s compliance with President Bola Tinubu’s directive ordering the withdrawal of police personnel attached to VIPs.
Danhabu, who trades in phone accessories, was reportedly taken into custody in the first week of December at his place of business, barely two days after publishing the post. He was then moved to the Kaduna State Police Command headquarters.
According to information gathered, the trader was personally questioned by the Commissioner of Police. During the interrogation, the police boss allegedly received a phone call, after which officers were instructed to detain Danhabu.
A family source claimed that instead of being arraigned before a High Court, Danhabu was taken to a Magistrate Court, where a remand order was issued, reportedly outside open court proceedings. He was said to have been ordered to remain in custody until January 13, 2026.
The incident generated anxiety among his relatives, who noted that Danhabu is a married father of two. They added that his prolonged detention took a toll on his elderly mother, who is said to be battling health challenges.
The Facebook post at the centre of the controversy accused Kaduna State officials — including commissioners, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, the Chief of Staff, and other top government figures — of continuing to move with police escorts despite the presidential directive.
In the post, Danhabu questioned why the policy, announced due to the shortage of security personnel and worsening insecurity nationwide, had not been enforced in Kaduna State. He further queried whether the governor was aware that officials beyond those legally entitled to police protection were still enjoying such privileges.
