By Ammar M. Rajab Amnesty International Nigeria has condemned the arrest of Hamisu Abdullahi, a 38-year-old resident of Suleja,...
By Ammar M. Rajab
Amnesty International Nigeria has condemned the arrest of Hamisu Abdullahi, a 38-year-old resident of Suleja, who was taken into custody by the Niger State Police Command on Friday after shouting “no water, no light” during Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s visit to the Emir of Suleja following Eid-el-Fitr prayers.
The police claimed Abdullahi was arrested for allegedly attempting to disrupt government activities during the governor’s visit. However, Amnesty International Nigeria described his protest as a “brave, courageous, and peaceful dissent,” stressing that citizens should not face detention for speaking truth to power.
“No one should be arrested for expressing legitimate grievances or drawing attention to the failure of authorities to provide basic services,” Amnesty stated. “Instead of being punished, Hamisu Abdullahi should have been listened to.”
The case highlights the ongoing challenges Nigerians face with essential utilities such as electricity and water, issues that have sparked public frustration nationwide.
Amnesty International Nigeria called on the authorities to go beyond merely granting bail and to immediately halt any further attempts to punish Abdullahi for exercising his constitutional right to freedom of expression.
The incident has reignited debates over civil liberties and government accountability in Niger State, drawing scrutiny to how dissent is handled by local authorities.
.jpeg)
No comments