Amnesty International’s Bold Demand: Investigate Threats Against Sokoto Critic Hamdiya

Amnesty International’s Bold Demand: Investigate Threats Against Sokoto Critic Hamdiya

Amnesty International Nigeria has urged the authorities to conduct a transparent and unbiased investigation into threats against Hamdiyya Sidi Shariff and her lawyer, Abba Hikima, during an ongoing trial in Sokoto State.

Hamdiyya faces charges of using abusive language and inciting public unrest for allegedly criticizing Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu. She has reportedly endured threats and harassment throughout the legal proceedings.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Amnesty International’s Director, Isa Sanusi, highlighted reports of intimidating phone calls, confrontations by suspected thugs, and surveillance by individuals claiming to be intelligence operatives.

“These actions signify a disturbing abuse of power and appear to be deliberate efforts to silence individuals advocating for justice, along with their legal representatives,” Sanusi stated.

The hostile atmosphere during a recent court session prompted Barrister Hikima to request armed police protection, which the court granted. Despite this, incidents of harassment continued, including stalking at their accommodation and intimidation attempts.

Hamdiyya’s ordeal began on November 13, 2024, when armed men abducted her as she retrieved her phone from a charging point. She was beaten, thrown from a moving tricycle, and left with severe injuries.

Amnesty International has criticized the Sokoto State government and security agencies for failing to address these threats and instead focusing on suppressing dissent.

“Rather than silencing critics, Sokoto authorities should prioritize addressing the widespread insecurity plaguing the eastern parts of the state, where gunmen are killing, abducting, and displacing residents,” Sanusi added.

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