Amnesty Int’l alleges clampdown on Gov Yusuf’s critics

Amnesty International Nigeria has alleged a growing crackdown on dissenters against Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, alleging numerous arrests, detentions, threats, and intimidation due to critical comments and social media posts. In a statement on Wednesday, the organization described the situation as a "climate of fear" endangering citizens' freedom of expression.

Amnesty claimed individuals were being arrested or approached by security agencies over their opinions, some subjected to hurried trials and convictions on dubious charges. They singled out opposition supporters and academics, claiming some were targeted through social media posts. Notably, Abba Ibrahim Kofar Nasarawa, known as Aiha K Nass, has been in detention since August.

Other individuals mentioned by Amnesty include Murtala Muhammad Dawanau, Fatima Dayyabu, Maryam Usman, Muhammad Ahmad, Hafsat Muhammad Sauwama Kauwama, Khadija Garba Kadnass, Ismail Hassan Hussain Lajin Dala, and Isa Zanna Isa. Amnesty also alleged Zaidu Magaji faced threats and intimidation. The organization called on the Kano State Government and security forces to respect freedom of expression and association, emphasizing that criticizing elected officials is protected by the right to freedom of expression.

The latest claim follows broader concerns raised by Amnesty over arrests, detentions, and criticism of activists and social media critics in Nigeria. The Kano State Government previously dismissed similar allegations, calling them "misleading, unfounded," and stating its commitment to human rights and the protection of security agencies.