Amnesty International has expressed concerns over the alleged crackdown on critics of the Kano State Government. The organization claims that several individuals have been arrested, detained, or intimidated for comments and social media posts critical of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. This has created fear and restricted freedom of expression in the state. Amnesty International has specifically mentioned Abba Ibrahim Kofar Nasarawa, popularly known as Aiha K Nass, who has been in detention since August.
According to Amnesty International, other individuals who have faced alleged harassment include Murtala Muhammad Dawanau, who was detained over a Facebook comment, and Fatima Dayyabu, who was arrested, arraigned, and fined for criticizing the government. The list also includes Maryam Usman, popularly known as Golden Queen; Muhammad Ahmad; Hafsat Muhammad Sauwama Kauwama; Khadija Garba Kadnass; Ismail Hassan Hussain Lajin Dala; and Isa Zanna Isa. Amnesty International also alleged that Zaidu Magaji faced threats and intimidation.
Amnesty International described these arrests as indicative of the constant harassment of opposition politicians and their supporters, and severe stifling of freedom of expression in Kano State. The organization emphasized that citizens have the right to criticize elected officials and urged the Kano State Government and security agencies to respect freedom of expression and association. Amnesty International stated that it is perfectly within the right of the people to criticize the President or a governor, and that arresting critics is unacceptable in a free society.
The Kano State Government has rejected the allegations made by Amnesty International, describing the account as one-sided and misleading. The government, through the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, stated that the right to freedom of expression is constitutionally guaranteed, and the administration recognizes these legitimate rights of citizens, journalists, civil society organizations, and opposition to criticize government policies and programs.
However, the Kano State Government argued that freedom of expression does not provide immunity from investigation or prosecution where alleged conduct violates the rights of others or provisions of the law. The government stated that security agencies have a statutory responsibility to investigate alleged criminal conduct, while courts have the constitutional responsibility to determine guilt or innocence.
The government also rejected the description of arrests involving critics as arbitrary, arguing that security agencies operate within federal laws and their constitutional responsibilities. The Kano Government expressed commitment to democratic governance, the rule of law, and fundamental rights, while urging Amnesty International to provide sufficient context and consider the perspectives of government authorities, security agencies, and the courts.
The Kano Government remains willing to engage human rights organizations, civil society groups, and the media on civic freedoms, security, and good governance. The government described Amnesty International's allegations as attempts to serve some political interests and promote hate speech, misinformation, disinformation, and fake news.
Key points
- Amnesty International alleges that Kano State Government is cracking down on critics of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
- The Kano State Government has rejected Amnesty International's allegations as one-sided and misleading.
- The issue has raised concerns about freedom of expression and human rights in Kano State.
