Amnesty International Report: Kano Govt Dismisses Allegations as Misleading
The Kano State Government has rejected allegations by Amnesty International accusing it of escalating repression and endangering freedom of expression in the state.
In a statement issued on February 25, 2026, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, described the claims contained in Amnesty’s publication titled “Kano: Escalating Repression Endangers Freedom of Expression” as false, misleading, and a gross misrepresentation of facts.
The human rights organization had alleged a pattern of arrests, detention, and harassment of individuals for criticizing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, purportedly at the instance of the state government.
Government Denies Targeting Critics
Reacting to the claims, the government maintained that it has never directed any security agency to harass or intimidate individuals for expressing dissenting views. It reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression as guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The statement emphasized that while freedom of expression is constitutionally protected, it is not absolute and does not extend to libel, slander, defamation, hate speech, incitement, or deliberate misinformation.
“No democratic society permits the weaponization of social media to spread malicious falsehoods or content capable of breaching public peace under the guise of free speech,” the statement read.
The government further clarified that security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), operate within their statutory mandates.
According to the statement, any invitation or arrest carried out by security operatives is based on petitions, complaints, or credible allegations of wrongdoing such as cyberbullying, defamation, incitement, and character assassination.
It stressed that the Kano State Government does not control or micromanage federal security agencies but supports lawful efforts to address cybercrime and maintain public order.
The administration highlighted what it described as its media-friendly posture and engagement with civil society organizations, noting its participation in the Open Government Partnership initiative aimed at enhancing citizen participation in governance.
The government also pointed to what it called unprecedented civic engagement in the state and reiterated its belief that constructive criticism remains essential for democratic growth.
While acknowledging the role of dissent in a democracy, the statement drew a distinction between legitimate criticism and actions that could undermine public peace or damage reputations through false accusations.
Kano State Government urged organizations and commentators to verify facts and engage relevant authorities before making public pronouncements capable of generating tension or undermining institutions.
It reiterated its commitment to democratic values, the rule of law, and peaceful coexistence, assuring citizens that constitutional rights would continue to be respected while also ensuring that such rights are exercised responsibly and within the bounds of the law.
