SSS releases detained Hausa Zallah activist Bichiia Maisango after 6 months in detention

The State Security Service, SSS, has released Ibrahim Aliyu Maisango, a former staff member of the agency and Hausa Zallah activist popularly known as Bichiia Maisango.

His release was confirmed by his wife, Hauwa Mundi, in a Facebook post on Friday.

Mr Maisango was reportedly arrested in June 2 and dismissed from the secret service in July over allegations of “discreditable conduct” and “disobedience to lawful order”.

His detention after his dismissal sparked public debate, with his wife repeatedly raising concerns about his continued custody and the hardship his absence had caused the family.

In her Facebook post announcing his release, Mundi expressed gratitude to Nigerians, lawyers, activists and other individuals who supported the family during the period of his detention.

“I have come with a basket full of gratitude. I have come to say THANK YOU for standing with us through the past five months. Months of uncertainty, frustration, prayers, conversations and, sometimes, tears.

“But through it all, you refused to let Bichiia Maisango’s name disappear,” she wrote.

She said public comments, media reports, telephone calls and other forms of solidarity helped draw attention to her husband’s detention and prevented his ordeal from being forgotten.

According to her, the support helped take Mr Maisango’s case beyond the family’s immediate circle and brought it to wider public attention.

Mundi specifically acknowledged his lawyer, Inibehe Effiong; Olusegun Rex-Adebanjo; human rights lawyer Femi Falana; activist Dele Farotimi; former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung; and Dr Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim.

She also appreciated Kungiyar Hausawan Nigeria, led by Abdullahi Abdullahi, and other Nigerians who supported the campaign for her husband’s release.

“And to the countless Nigerians whose names I may never know but whose voices joined ours, this thank you is for you too.

“You reminded me that even in difficult times, there are still people willing to stand up for what they believe is right.

“Bichi is finally home,” she said.

Mundi added that the family would not forget those who stood by them during the five months of uncertainty.

“Thank you, Nigerians. May you never need the kind of solidarity you gave us, but if you ever do, may Nigeria come through for you the way you came through for Bichi,” she added.