Global rights watchdog, Amnesty International, has faulted the prolonged detention of Kabiru Ibrahim Dallah, declaring it illegal and a direct infringement on his fundamental right to free expression.
Dallah was reportedly taken into custody following remarks allegedly interpreted as critical of the Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State, Laraban Shu’aibu Magaji.
In a statement released on Monday, the 12th of January, 2026, Amnesty International said the case highlights a disturbing pattern of clampdowns on young Nigerians who express opposing or dissenting views, particularly those who speak out against public officials.
The organisation revealed that Dallah has remained in custody for more than 40 days at the Lafia Correctional Centre, where he is being held under what it described as “deplorable conditions,” despite no credible legal justification for his continued detention.
Amnesty further raised concerns that the authorities intend to subject him to what it referred to as a “sham trial” based on “baseless charges,” noting that multiple attempts to secure his release on bail have been repeatedly and unjustifiably rejected.
“Kabiru Dallah is clearly being punished for expressing his views,” the organisation stated, adding that his ordeal reflects the increasing impunity with which government officials target critics in an effort to silence dissent and intimidate others.
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The rights group accused state authorities of misusing their powers to stifle free speech, warning that such actions are deliberately aimed at instilling fear, especially among young people who rely on digital platforms to express their opinions.
Amnesty International consequently demanded Dallah’s immediate and unconditional release, stressing that freedom of expression is a fundamental right that must be safeguarded at all times.
The organisation also expressed alarm over the growing number of young Nigerians facing intimidation, arrests, unlawful detention, and harassment for voicing their opinions online, describing the trend as unacceptable and calling for an end to it.
“This is a blatant abuse of power aimed at silencing critics and creating a toxic climate of fear.
“Kabiru Dallah must be released immediately and unconditionally. The continued assault on the freedom of expression of young Nigerians is deeply troubling and must stop,” the organisation said.