Amnesty International has called on the Sokoto State government and the Nigeria Police to immediately drop all charges against 18-year-old activist Hamdiyya Sidi Sharif, describing them as unfounded and politically motivated. The organization also demands a thorough and impartial investigation into her recent abduction.
Hamdiyya Sharif, a vocal critic of the Sokoto State government, is facing charges related to public incitement stemming from a social media post. She is scheduled to appear before a Sharia court today. Amnesty International asserts that these charges are an attempt to silence dissenting voices and undermine freedom of expression in Nigeria.
"The charges against Hamdiyya Sharif are clearly trumped up and aimed at stifling her activism," said Osai Ojigho, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria. "The Sokoto government must recognize that citizens have the right to express their opinions without fear of harassment or arrest."
In addition to calling for the dismissal of the charges, Amnesty International emphasizes the need for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Hamdiyya's abduction. Reports indicate that she was forcibly taken from her home in Achida, raising serious concerns about her safety and the treatment of activists in the region.
"Hamdiyya's case highlights a troubling trend of repression against activists in Nigeria," added Ojigho. "The government must act decisively to protect human rights defenders rather than targeting them for speaking out."