Many critics of Kano Gov Yusuf facing arbitrary arrests, detention, threats – Amnesty

Amnesty International has denounced what it perceives as a growing crackdown on free speech in Kano State, pointing to arbitrary arrests, detention, threats and intimidation of those who dissent against Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. The human rights organization claimed that individuals critical of the state government have been apprehended or "referred" by law enforcement for expressing their opinions on social media.

They alleged that some of those detained underwent "sham trials" and received sentences for dubious charges. Amnesty highlighted the case of Abba Ibrahim Kofar Nasarawa, known as Aiha K Nass, who has been held in custody since August. They also referred to Alhaji Murtala Muhammad Dawanau, who is detained merely for posting on Facebook, and Fatima Dayyabu, who was arrested, tried and fined for her criticism.

Other individuals allegedly targeted in this crackdown include Maryam Usman, known as Golden Queen, Muhammad Ahmad, Hafsat Muhammad Sauwama Kauwama, Khadija Garba Kadnass, Ismail Hassan Hussain Lajin Dala and Isa Zanna Isa. Amnesty further stated that Zaidu Magaji has faced "outrageous threats and intimidation." The organization argued that such arrests are evidence of relentless harassment of opposition politicians and their supporters, leading to a stifling of free expression in Kano State.

They called upon the Kano State government and law enforcement agencies to uphold citizens’ rights to freedom of expression and association. Amnesty's 2026 report on Nigeria also documented arrests and detention of journalists and others for dissenting expression, including instances involving social media posts.