Global human rights watchdog, Amnesty International, has strongly condemned the arrest and detention of Jigawa-based activist Abba Mu’azu Abiyos by the Jigawa State Police Command, describing the action as a blatant abuse of power and a violation of fundamental human rights.
In a statement issued on Friday, Amnesty International said Abiyos was arrested on Wednesday, 12 November 2025, over Facebook posts allegedly defaming the Executive Chairman of Roni Local Government Area, Abba Ya’u.
“Amnesty International strongly condemns the unlawful arrest and detention of activist Abba Mu’azu Abiyos by the Jigawa State Police Command over a baseless allegation of defaming the Chairman of Roni LGA, Abba Ya’u,” the organisation stated.
Activist Arrested After Posting Photos of Controversial Empowerment Programme
SaharaReporters had earlier reported that Abiyos went missing shortly after he shared photos of a controversial empowerment initiative introduced by the Roni LGA Chairman. The programme involved distributing locally fabricated wheelbarrows and yellow water jerrycans to residents — an initiative officials claimed would “empower youths” and support small-scale water and goods vending.
Abiyos, a well-known civic activist and vocal critic of wasteful government spending, posted images of smiling beneficiaries standing beside wheelbarrows loaded with jerrycans.
The post, which went viral on X (formerly Twitter), triggered widespread ridicule and outrage among Nigerians, who described the empowerment scheme as “insensitive,” “ridiculous,” and completely out of touch with the nation’s rising economic hardship.
Soon after, friends and colleagues raised alarm that Abiyos had gone missing, sparking speculation about his whereabouts. Amnesty International’s statement has now confirmed that he was arrested by state police.
“Criticism of Government Officials Is Not a Crime” — Amnesty International
Amnesty accused the police of trampling on Abiyos’ rights and attempting to silence dissent.
“Criticising people in power or government programmes is not a crime,” the organisation said. “The police action shows utter disregard for the rule of law and intolerance of dissenting voices.”
The group stressed that Abiyos’ continued detention at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) poses psychological risks and is unlawful.
“Detaining him at the CID puts him in a tormenting situation. No one should be punished for criticizing a government official,” Amnesty said.
According to the organisation, Abiyos committed no offence under Nigerian or international law, as criticism of public office holders is fully protected under fundamental rights provisions.
Police Warned Against Being Used as Political Tools
Amnesty International further cautioned the Nigerian Police Force against acting as an instrument of political intimidation.
“The Nigerian police must always uphold due process and not become a tool in the hands of politicians by carrying out arbitrary arrest, detention, and undue restrictions on freedom of expression,” the group warned.
Call for Immediate and Unconditional Release
The organisation demanded Abiyos’ immediate and unconditional release, insisting that his arrest undermines Nigeria’s democratic values and signals a dangerous trend of intolerance towards criticism.
“Detaining Abba Abiyos solely for exercising his right to freedom of expression is unacceptable and shows contempt for the rule of law. The activist must be released immediately and unconditionally.”
