Amnesty International has issued a fresh demand for the immediate and unconditional release of Shafi’u Tureta, who was arrested and allegedly unlawfully detained on the orders of Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu. Tureta’s arrest followed his reposting of a viral video showing a lavish birthday party held for the governor’s wife, which has sparked a heated debate about freedom of expression in Nigeria.
According to Amnesty International, on August 26, 2024, Tureta was hastily arraigned before a Sokoto magistrate court and subsequently remanded in prison. The human rights organization alleges that the process was rushed, suggesting it is part of a broader plan to keep Tureta indefinitely detained as punishment for exercising his right to free speech. Amnesty described the action as a clear attempt to stifle dissent and suppress criticism of the government.
Tureta’s reposting of the video, which had already gone viral before he shared it, appears to be the primary reason for his arrest. The video, which reportedly depicted an extravagant celebration, has been a source of controversy, with many online users criticizing the lavish display of wealth during a time when many Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship. Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration, however, has taken a heavy-handed approach by targeting Tureta, a move Amnesty International says is emblematic of a growing intolerance towards dissent.
Amnesty International strongly condemned the actions of the Sokoto state government, calling Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s crackdown on critics “frightening” and unacceptable in a democratic society. “No one should be punished solely for expressing an opinion that is contrary to that of the government or its officials,” the organization stated, adding that the governor’s actions are in direct violation of fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression.
The human rights group expressed deep concern that Tureta’s detention is part of a broader pattern of silencing dissent in Sokoto state. Amnesty called on the Nigerian authorities to ensure that individuals are not punished for peacefully expressing their views, regardless of how critical they may be of those in power.
“The targeting of Shafi’u Tureta and other critics by the Sokoto state government is nothing short of an attempt to silence dissent and suppress freedom of expression, particularly of those who hold and express views critical of the government,” Amnesty International said in a statement.
The organization urged the Nigerian government to uphold its international obligations, particularly in protecting the rights to freedom of expression and opinion. It also called for greater transparency in the handling of Tureta’s case and for the release of any other individuals who may have been wrongfully detained for similar reasons.
The case has sparked outrage on social media, with activists and citizens alike calling for Tureta’s immediate release and condemning the Sokoto state government’s actions as an abuse of power. Many have expressed concerns over the growing climate of fear for those who speak out against the government in Nigeria, warning that such actions set a dangerous precedent for freedom of expression in the country.
