The United Intellectuals for Community Development Initiative (UNICODI) has called on the Katsina State Government to immediately release Dr. Bashir Kurfi Babangida from police custody and engage him in efforts to address the worsening security crisis confronting the state.
The organisation made the demand in a statement signed by its National Chairman, Prof. Mohammed Mustapha Abubakar, on Saturday, describing the continued detention of the Ahmadu Bello University lecturer and Executive Director of the Network for Justice as unjustified and counterproductive.
Dr. Kurfi was arraigned before a Chief Magistrates’ Court in Katsina on July 8, 2026, on two counts of alleged defamation and injurious falsehood under Sections 308 and 309(1) of the Penal Code Law of Katsina State.
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The charges arose from comments he allegedly made concerning the state government’s handling of banditry and the prevailing security situation.
He pleaded not guilty to the charges, while the court ordered that he be remanded in police custody pending the continuation of hearing scheduled for July 14, 2026.
Reacting to the development, UNICODI condemned the arrest and detention of the academic, arguing that rather than prosecuting a respected scholar and peace advocate, the state government should leverage his expertise in tackling insecurity.
The organisation said Dr. Kurfi has consistently demonstrated commitment to peace, justice and good governance, stressing that his contributions to public discourse should not be criminalised.
According to the group, the prosecution sends a troubling signal about the shrinking civic space and the treatment of citizens who raise concerns over governance and public security.
UNICODI noted that the case has attracted widespread attention from local and international human rights organisations, pointing to concerns that the prosecution could undermine freedom of expression and democratic accountability.
The organisation said Dr. Kurfi’s arrest followed his public comments on insecurity at a time when residents of Katsina State continue to grapple with persistent attacks by armed groups, displacement of communities and growing humanitarian challenges.
It argued that governments should focus on addressing the substance of criticisms relating to public safety instead of targeting individuals who speak out in the public interest.
Describing Dr. Kurfi as a respected scholar, activist and advocate for peace, UNICODI said he has spent decades promoting justice, accountability and conflict resolution across Northern Nigeria.
The group highlighted his longstanding involvement in human rights advocacy, recalling his activism dating back to the 1990s and his leadership of the Network for Justice.
It also pointed to his academic research on violent crime and its socio-economic impact in Northwest Nigeria, saying his scholarship and practical experience could contribute significantly to ongoing efforts to address insecurity in the region.
UNICODI maintained that the current security situation requires collaboration among government institutions, civil society organisations, academics and community leaders rather than confrontation.
The organisation urged the Katsina State Government to demonstrate leadership by withdrawing from what it described as an unnecessary legal confrontation and instead opening constructive dialogue with Dr. Kurfi.
Quoting the Hausa proverb, “Durkusawa wada ba gajiyawa bane,” the group said humility and consultation remain essential qualities of effective leadership, particularly at a time when communities are demanding practical solutions to insecurity.
According to UNICODI, engaging knowledgeable citizens with proven expertise would strengthen efforts to restore peace, protect lives and rebuild public confidence in government.
The organisation therefore appealed to the state government to release Dr. Kurfi without delay and work with stakeholders committed to finding lasting solutions to the security challenges facing Katsina State.