Human rights organizations and civil society groups are raising urgent concerns following the abduction of 18-year-old activist Hamdiyya Sidi Shariff in Sokoto State. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, with allegations pointing to a coordinated campaign of persecution orchestrated by the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu.
On November 13, 2024, Hamdiyya Sidi Shariff was abducted by armed men while en route to retrieve her mobile phone from a charging point. She was reportedly beaten and thrown from a moving tricycle, sustaining severe injuries. This act of violence occurred shortly after she had been charged in a Sharia court for allegedly using "insulting or abusive language" and "inciting disturbance" following her criticism of Governor Aliyu's handling of insecurity in the state.
Despite her release on bail, Hamdiyya has continued to face intimidation. Amnesty International reported that she and her lawyer, Abba Hikima, have been subjected to threats, including phone calls and in-person confrontations by individuals claiming to be 'intelligence agents.'
Amnesty International has condemned the actions of the Sokoto State government, describing them as a blatant attempt to suppress dissent. The organization has called for an impartial investigation into the threats against Hamdiyya and her legal counsel, urging the Nigerian authorities to ensure their safety during court proceedings.
Hamdiyya Sidi Shariff is a vocal critic of the government's handling of insecurity in Sokoto State. In a viral video, she highlighted the rampant killings and widespread insecurity, revealing how displaced women seeking refuge in the state capital are being sexually exploited due to abject poverty and squalor.
Her activism has made her a target of the state government, leading to her arrest and subsequent charges. Despite the challenges, she remains steadfast in her commitment to advocating for the rights of the marginalized and voiceless in her community.