Amnesty says Kano authorities are cracking down on critics; several arrests and detentions reported

# What happened Amnesty International issued a statement on Sept. 24, 2026 alleging a growing crackdown on freedom of expression in Kano State, Nigeria. The organisation says people who have criticised Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf or the state government on social media and elsewhere have faced arbitrary arrest, detention, threats and intimidation.

# Specific allegations and cases Amnesty named several individuals it says were targeted. It flagged arrests, invitations by security agencies, hurried prosecutions and fines. Cases singled out include:

• Abba Ibrahim Kofar Nasar (Aiha K Nass) and Alhaji Murtala Muhammad Dawanau — Amnesty says both remained in detention over social media expressions.
• Fatima Dayyabu — reported to have been arrested, arraigned and fined for criticism of the government.
• Other people Amnesty listed as affected: Maryam Usman (Golden Queen), Muhammad Ahmad, Hafsat Muhammad Sauwama Kauwama, Khadija Garba Kadnass, Ismail Hassan Hussain Lajin Dala and Isa Zanna Isa.
• Zaidu Magaji — Amnesty reported that this person faced threats and intimidation.

Amnesty also accused security agencies of subjecting some detainees to what it described as "sham trials" and issuing sentences on questionable charges.

# Kano government response Amnesty. Officials described the claims as "misleading, unfounded, and a gross misrepresentation of facts." The government says security agencies act in response to petitions and allegations that include cyberbullying, defamation and incitement.

# Broader context Amnesty referenced its wider 2026 assessment of Nigeria, which documents arrests and detentions of journalists and other people over dissenting expression, including on social media. Related recent reporting and statements in the region include calls for investigations into attacks on journalists, alleged intimidation by state actors, and condemnations of violent assaults that affect media workers.

# What Amnesty wants The organisation called on Kano State authorities and security agencies to respect the rights to freedom of expression and association. It urged that elected officials be open to criticism and that security agencies not be used to intimidate citizens who criticise public officials.

# What to watch next

• Whether Kano State responds with public details about the named cases or opens investigations into the allegations of wrongful arrests and sham prosecutions.
• Any follow-up reporting on the detention status of the named individuals and whether legal proceedings continue or are reviewed.

# Why this matters Freedom of expression on social media and in public debate is central to political accountability. Allegations of arbitrary arrest or misuse of security powers raise legal and human-rights questions and affect how citizens engage with political leaders.