A prominent coalition of concerned elders in Katsina State has strongly condemned the arrest and continuous detention of renowned security analyst and public affairs commentator, Dr. Bashir Usman Kurfi, demanding his immediate and unconditional release.
​In a joint statement issued on Thursday, July 9, 2026, the elders described the detention of Dr. Kurfi who serves as the convener of the Katsina Security Community Initiative as a major setback to the ongoing strategic efforts to combat banditry and general insecurity plaguing the state.
​The elders expressed deep concern over the development, warning that silencing key independent voices who offer critical insights and community-driven solutions would only embolden criminal elements.
​”Dr. Bashir Usman Kurfi has consistently dedicated his expertise to finding actionable blueprints for peace in Katsina State. Arresting a patriot of his stature, especially at a time when collaborative security intelligence is desperately needed, is highly counterproductive,” the statement read in part.
​While details surrounding the exact security agency holding Dr. Kurfi and the official charges against him remain sketchy, global rights groups, including Amnesty International, have already condemned the detention, calling for due process.
​The Katsina elders urged the federal and state governments to intervene swiftly, noting that constructive criticism and public commentary should not be criminalized if the region is to overcome its current security challenges.
