The Kano State Government has rejected allegations by Amnesty International that it is suppressing freedom of expression, describing the claims as false, misleading, and unfounded.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, said Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration remains committed to protecting fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression as guaranteed by Nigeria’s constitution.
The response followed a report by Amnesty International titled “Kano: Escalating Repression Endangers Freedom of Expression”, which accused the state government of allegedly directing security agencies to harass, arrest, and intimidate individuals critical of the governor.
Waiya dismissed the allegations, insisting the government has never ordered any security agency to target individuals for expressing dissenting opinions.
“The administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is firmly committed to fundamental human rights, including the right to freedom of expression. At no time has the government directed any security agency to harass or intimidate any individual merely for expressing dissenting opinions,” he said.
The commissioner added that freedom of expression does not extend to defamation, incitement, hate speech, or spreading false information capable of disrupting public peace.
He noted that security agencies, including the Department of State Services, operate independently and act on credible complaints or petitions regarding offences such as cyberbullying, defamation, or incitement.
Waiya further explained that the state government does not control federal security agencies’ operations but supports efforts to combat cybercrime and protect individuals’ reputations.
He also highlighted initiatives promoting civic engagement and media freedom, including the Open Government Partnership, which encourages citizen participation in governance.
“Constructive criticism is vital for democracy, but there is a legal boundary between legitimate criticism and acts of defamation or incitement,” the commissioner said.
Waiya called on organisations and commentators to verify facts and engage relevant authorities before making claims that could undermine public institutions or create unnecessary tension.
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