The Department of State Services (DSS) has finally granted family access to Atiku Abubakar Isah, the detained President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), after more than a month of incommunicado detention without formal charges. This breakthrough came following sustained public pressure and media scrutiny, notably highlighted by SaharaReporters’ reporting.

Isah’s wife, accompanied by a relative, her infant child, and a driver, was allowed to visit him at the DSS headquarters in Abuja. According to a family source who spoke to SaharaReporters, the visit was initially denied despite following official procedures but was eventually permitted after persistence. The family confirmed that Isah appeared fatigued but was in stable health. DSS operatives reportedly assured them that his release would be imminent.

Isah’s detention has been highly controversial. He was arrested shortly after his inauguration as NANS president on April 29, 2025, in an event marred by violent attacks allegedly orchestrated by a rival faction supported by Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu. Isah publicly accused Seyi Tinubu of offering him a ₦100 million bribe to abandon his presidential ambition in favor of a government-backed candidate. He also alleged physical assault by government-backed thugs, including being kicked in the face by his rival, Ladoja Olusola.

During his detention, Isah declared a hunger protest, refusing food and medication provided by the DSS, citing fears for his safety amid allegations of torture and intimidation aimed at silencing his activism. He reportedly believes his life is in danger and fears attempts to poison him.

On May 14, 2025, Isah filed a ₦38.3 billion fundamental human rights enforcement suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja against the DSS, the Nigerian Television Authority, and Seyi Tinubu, accusing them of abduction, illegal detention, torture, and character defamation. The suit seeks his immediate release and protection from further threats.

Human rights advocates and legal experts have called for transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law in handling Isah’s case, emphasizing the importance of protecting constitutional rights irrespective of political influence.

This development marks a significant moment in a case that has drawn national and international attention to issues of political intimidation, human rights, and the treatment of student activists in Nigeria.