Amnesty International Nigeria has expressed concern over the alleged increasing crackdown on critics of the Kano State Government. The organization stated that several individuals have been subjected to arrest, detention, threats, and intimidation due to comments and social media posts critical of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. This development has created a “climate of fear” and threatens citizens’ right to freedom of expression.
According to Amnesty International, people are being arrested or invited by security agencies over their opinions, while some have allegedly been subjected to hurried trials and convictions on questionable charges. The organization identified several individuals who have been affected, including opposition supporters who have been targeted over social media posts. This has raised concerns about the stifling of freedom of expression in Kano State.
Amnesty International named Abba Ibrahim Kofar Nasarawa, popularly known as Aiha K Nass, as a particular concern, stating that he has remained in detention since August. The organization also mentioned Alhaji Murtala Muhammad Dawanau, who was detained over a comment on a Facebook post, and Fatima Dayyabu, who was allegedly arrested, arraigned, and fined over criticism.
Other individuals listed by Amnesty International include 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. The organization also alleged that Zaidu Magaji had been subjected to threats and intimidation. These cases have raised concerns about the harassment of opposition politicians and their supporters.
Amnesty International urged the Kano State Government and security agencies to respect citizens’ rights to freedom of expression and association. The organization stated that criticism of elected officials is protected by the right to freedom of expression and that no public official should be shielded from criticism. This is particularly important in a democratic setting, where citizens’ voices should be heard.
The Kano State Government has previously rejected similar allegations by Amnesty International, describing them as “misleading, unfounded” and a misrepresentation of facts. However, Amnesty International’s latest allegation comes amid wider concerns raised over arrests and detention of activists, social media critics, and other people expressing dissent in Nigeria. The organization’s 2025 country assessment documented several cases involving social media posts and criticism of public officials.
The situation in Kano State highlights the ongoing challenges to freedom of expression in Nigeria. Amnesty International’s allegations underscore the need for the government and security agencies to ensure that citizens’ rights are respected and protected. The organization’s call for the release of those detained and an end to the crackdown on critics is a reminder of the importance of upholding democratic values and human rights.
Key points
- Amnesty International alleges increasing crackdown on critics of Kano State Gov, Abba Kabir Yusuf.
- Several individuals have been arrested, detained, threatened, and intimidated over comments and social media posts critical of the governor.
- The organization urges the Kano State Government and security agencies to respect citizens’ rights to freedom of expression and association.
