Amnesty International has expressed serious concern over the continued detention of Kabiru Ibrahim Dallah, who was allegedly arrested for criticising the Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State, Laraban Shu’aibu Magaji.

In a statement, the global human rights organisation described Dallah’s detention as unlawful and punitive, highlighting it as part of a worrying pattern of repression targeting young Nigerians exercising their right to freedom of expression.

According to Amnesty International, Dallah has been held in “deplorable conditions” at the Lafia Correctional Centre for over 40 days since his arrest last year, with no justification provided. The group also warned of plans to subject him to a “sham trial” on allegedly fabricated charges, noting that repeated efforts to secure bail have been bizarrely rejected.

“Clearly, Kabiru Dallah is being punished for his opinions,” Amnesty International said, emphasizing that his case reflects growing impunity by government officials targeting young people for expressing critical views.

The rights organisation accused authorities of abusing power in an attempt to silence dissent, warning that such actions aim to create a climate of fear among the youth.

Amnesty International called for Dallah’s immediate and unconditional release, stressing that the right to freedom of expression in Nigeria is under increasing threat. The group also noted that many young Nigerians face threats, arrests, illegal detention, and harassment for expressing opinions online, a trend the organisation described as unacceptable.

“Kabiru Dallah is a victim of wanton abuse of power and a desperate attempt to silence critics. This pattern of repression must end immediately,” Amnesty International stated.