Concerned Citizens Condemn DPO Over Alleged Torture of Activist in Bauchi, Demand Immediate Removal­

Bauchi, Nigeria – April 22, 2026

Concerned citizens in Bauchi State have strongly condemned what they described as misplaced priorities and abuse of power by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Central Market Police Division, following the arrest and alleged torture of a human rights activist, Ishaq Abubakar, popularly known as Major.

In a statement, the citizens accused the DPO and his officers of subjecting the activist to inhumane treatment, including physical assault, which reportedly left him with severe injuries.

They further alleged that the police division has been involved in unlawful detention practices and the imposition of baseless bail conditions, raising concerns that the station is being operated as a “business center” rather than a law enforcement institution.

The group criticized what they described as a deviation from the core responsibilities of the police, urging authorities to take urgent action.

They called on the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to immediately transfer or dismiss the DPO, in order to put an end to alleged human rights violations and arbitrary detention practices in the state.

The concerned citizens also demanded a thorough and independent investigation into the incident, with a view to ensuring accountability for all officers found culpable.

As of the time of filing this report, the Bauchi State Police Command has not issued any official statement regarding the allegations.