The League of Civil Society Organizations in Kano State has strongly condemned what it described as a growing pattern of intimidation, harassment, and suppression of dissenting voices in the state.
The coalition declared its solidarity with Amnesty International Nigeria in calling for the immediate respect and protection of the fundamental right to freedom of expression in Kano State.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the League expressed concern over alleged reports that security operatives are being deployed to intimidate, harass, and silence individuals and groups who criticise government policies.
It stressed that the right to freedom of expression is guaranteed under Section 39 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and reinforced by Nigeria’s obligations under regional and international human rights instruments, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
According to the coalition, the use of security agencies to stifle peaceful criticism undermines democratic governance and erodes public trust in state institutions. It noted that democracy thrives on open dialogue, constructive criticism, and active civic participation.
“Silencing dissent not only violates constitutional rights but also weakens accountability and transparency in governance,” the statement said.
The League called on the Kano State Government to immediately cease the use of security operatives to intimidate or suppress critics, uphold and protect the constitutional rights of residents, including the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, and ensure that security agencies operate strictly within the bounds of the law while respecting human rights at all times.
It further urged the government to foster an environment where citizens can freely express their opinions without fear of reprisal.
The coalition emphasized that criticism of government policies is not a crime but a vital component of democratic engagement, adding that a government that listens to its people is stronger, more accountable, and more transparent.
The League reaffirmed its commitment to defending human rights, promoting democratic values, and supporting lawful efforts aimed at ensuring justice and accountability in Kano State and across Nigeria.
Endorsed By:
- Comrade Bala Abdullahi Gaduwama – Wuro Development Concerns (WDCN)
- Yusha’u Sani Yankuzo, Esq. – Centre for Human Rights and Social Advancement (CEFSAN)
- Mohammed Bello – African Centre for Innovative Research and Development (AFRI-CIRD)
- Abdullahi Y. Sule – Youth and Environmental Development Association (YEDA)
- Abdulkadir Musa Hausawa – Youth Enlightenment Forum
- Adeniyi Aremu, Esq. – Civil Society Organization for Conflict Resolution in Nigeria (CS-CRIN)
- Sani Ilyas Abdullahi, Esq. – Joint Action Front (JAF), Kano State
- Comrade Fatima A. Ibrahim – United Action for Democracy (UAD), Kano State
- Comrade Khadija Hudu A. – Justice, Accountability and Rights Advocacy Centre
- Comrade Moh’d Sani Garba – Pay it Forward Initiative
- Fatima Muhammad – Gender Inclusive and Development Support Initiative, Kano
- Aminu Sani Muhammad, Esq. – Rule of Law and Justice Advancement Network (ROLJAN)
- Comrade M. K. Adam – Societal-Based Initiative for Rights, Peace and Development (SOBIRPED)
- Fatima Ibrahim Badamasi – Gender Support and Youth Empowerment Initiative (GENSAYE)
- Buhari Abubakar Usman – Centre for Legal Orientation and Humanitarian Aid (CELOHA)
- Abdullahi Yahaya, Esq. – Publish What You Pay (PWYP), Kano State
- Comrade Auwal Salisu – Centre for Awareness Reorientation and Empowerment (CARE-Africa)
- Umar Isa Sulaiman, Esq. – Frontier for Gender Advocacy, Accountability & Empowerment Initiative.
- Maryam Garba Usman – Centre for Gender and Social Inclusion (CAGSI)
- Fatima Chabir Aliyu, Esq. – Community-Based Equal Justice Initiative
- Comrade Salisu Ibrahim Sa’eed – Kano Youth Integrity Forum
- Comrade Baraya Garba Hassan – Centre for Education, Health and Entrepreneurship Development (CEHED), Nigeria.
- Abba Bello Ahmed – Campaign for Democracy (CD), Kano State
