Human rights activist Abdulmumin Imam has been released by the Nigeria Police Force following public outrage over his alleged arrest and controversial transfer from Abuja to Taraba State.
According to sources cited in the report, Imam’s release reportedly came after pressure from Nigerians and rights advocates who condemned what they described as an abuse of power and a violation of his fundamental rights.
However, concerns have not disappeared. Sources alleged that police instructed him to return on Friday, a move some fear could be a setup to have him remanded despite concerns about his health.
One source claimed the activist’s condition worsened during detention and that he needed urgent medical attention immediately after regaining freedom.
Imam later confirmed his release himself in a public statement shared on Facebook, saying he had been granted bail and thanking Nigerians for the solidarity shown to him during the ordeal.
“I am deeply grateful to Almighty God and sincerely thank the good people of Taraba and Nigerians across the country for the overwhelming support, prayers and solidarity shown to me during this difficult time,” he wrote.
He added that the experience had strengthened his belief in justice, fairness, and collective action, while promising to share more details later.
The controversy surrounding his arrest became more serious after reports alleged that he was transported by road from Abuja to Taraba in an unmarked vehicle, despite reportedly being a sickle cell patient. Sources claimed the long journey, without adequate rest, worsened his physical condition.
There were also allegations that the operation was carried out by a police officer identified as Fala, though those claims remain part of the account cited in the report and have not been independently verified here.
Imam also reportedly denied claims by the Taraba State Police Command that he had ignored a prior police invitation before his arrest.
A photograph referenced in the report allegedly showed him appearing weak and visibly exhausted inside a small green vehicle, adding to public concern about how he was handled in custody.
At the centre of this case now are two big issues:
first, whether due process was followed in the way he was arrested and moved across states, and second, whether his health and rights were properly protected while in police custody.
That is why this case has gone beyond just one arrest — it is now being viewed by many as a test of police accountability and human rights protections in Nigeria.