Global human rights organisation, Amnesty International, has condemned the continued detention of Kabiru Ibrahim Dallah, describing it as unlawful and a clear violation of his right to freedom of expression.
Dallah was reportedly arrested over comments perceived as critical of the Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State, Laraban Shu’aibu Magaji.
Amnesty International, in a statement issued on Monday, said his detention reflects an alarming trend of repression against young Nigerians who express dissenting opinions.
The organisation disclosed that Dallah has been held for over 40 days at the Lafia Correctional Centre in what it described as “deplorable conditions,” despite the absence of any justifiable legal basis for his continued incarceration.
Amnesty further alleged that authorities are planning to subject him to what it termed a “sham trial” anchored on “baseless charges,” noting that repeated applications for his bail have been inexplicably turned down.
“Kabiru Dallah is clearly being punished for expressing his views,” the organisation stated, warning that his case exemplifies the growing impunity with which public officials target critics in a bid to silence dissent and intimidate others.
The rights group accused the authorities of abusing state power to suppress free speech, cautioning that such actions are designed to foster fear among citizens, particularly young people who use online platforms to voice their opinions.
The group therefore called for Dallah’s immediate and unconditional release, insisting that freedom of expression remains a fundamental right that must be protected.
It also expressed concern over the increasing number of young Nigerians who have been subjected to threats, arrests, unlawful detention and harassment for expressing their views online, stressing that the trend is unacceptable and must be brought to an end.
“This is a blatant abuse of power aimed at silencing critics and creating a toxic climate of fear.
“Kabiru Dallah must be released immediately and unconditionally. The continued assault on the freedom of expression of young Nigerians is deeply troubling and must stop,” the organisation said.
