Amnesty International Nigeria has called on authorities to launch an impartial and transparent investigation into threats against Hamdiyya Sidi Shariff and her lawyer, Abba Hikima, amid an ongoing trial in Sokoto State.
Hamdiyya, who is facing charges of use of insulting or abusive language and inciting disturbance for allegedly criticizing Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu, has reportedly been subjected to threats and harassment.
According to Amnesty International’s Director, Isa Sanusi, the threats include intimidating phone calls, confrontations by suspected thugs, and surveillance by individuals claiming to be intelligence agents.
“These actions represent an alarming abuse of power and a calculated attempt to intimidate and punish those who speak out for their society and lawyers defending them,” Sanusi said in a statement issued on Sunday.
Sanusi disclosed that during the last court hearing, Barrister Hikima was forced to request armed police protection due to the hostile atmosphere in the courtroom.
The court approved the request, but further harassment reportedly occurred, including stalking at their hotel and intimidation.
Hamdiyya’s ordeal dates back to November 13, 2024, when she was abducted by armed men while retrieving her phone from a charging point. She was beaten, thrown out of a moving tricycle, and left with severe injuries.
Amnesty International condemned the Sokoto State government and security agencies for failing to address the threats and instead focusing on suppressing dissent.
“Instead of attempting to silence critics, Sokoto authorities should prioritize addressing the rampant insecurity affecting the eastern part of the state, where gunmen continue to kill, abduct, and displace residents,” Sanusi added.