Prominent government critic Dan Bello was briefly arrested at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport upon his return to Nigeria from China earlier today. The arrest, which sparked immediate concern among supporters, lasted only minutes, as Bello was swiftly released alongside his ally, Barrister Abba Hikima, who had arrived at the airport to receive him.
According to sources, including a statement from Barrister Hamza Nuhu Dantanu, security operatives detained Bello shortly after he disembarked from his flight. The reasons for the arrest remain unclear, with no official statement from authorities at the time of this report. However, posts on X, including one from user @AbdallahVox citing DW Hausa, confirmed the brief detention, while@bapphah noted that Bello was released without delay.
Barrister Abba Hikima, a vocal legal practitioner and advocate, was present at the airport to welcome Bello. Both individuals, known for their outspoken criticism of government policies, were released together, prompting sighs of relief from their supporters. “We thank God!!” tweeted
@Abdoull_MH, confirming the release and crediting Barrister Dantanu as a source.The incident has reignited discussions about the treatment of government critics in Nigeria, with many on X speculating about the motives behind the swift arrest and release. Some described it as a “nightmare for looters,” suggesting the detention may have been an attempt to intimidate Bello and Hikima, who have been vocal about issues of corruption and governance.
While no official charges were announced, the brief detention has raised questions about the state of free expression in Nigeria. Bello and Hikima have yet to issue personal statements, but their release has been met with widespread support from followers online, with sentiments like those from
@nasirjubrel noting Bello’s freedom as a victory for advocates of transparency.As the story develops, Nigerians await further clarity on the circumstances surrounding the arrest. For now, Dan Bello and Barrister Abba Hikima are free, their brief ordeal at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport serving as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those who speak truth to power.
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