A coalition of civic groups in Niger State has petitioned the United States government to impose a visa ban and freeze the assets of Governor Umar Mohammed Bago, alleging a “persistent pattern of human rights violations, abuse of power, and total disregard for democratic principles.”

The petition, submitted to the U.S. Secretary of State by a group identifying itself as Concerned Citizens and Defenders of Democracy in Niger State, comes amid growing concerns over what activists describe as an escalating crackdown on dissent and religious freedoms under the Bago administration.

Crackdown on Critics and Alleged Abuse of Power

The petitioners accused Governor Bago of weaponising state power to silence critics even as insecurity continues to worsen across Niger State.

They cited the case of Isah “Mokwa” Abubakar, a postgraduate student at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBUL), who was arrested on cybercrime charges shortly after criticising the governor on social media. Rights groups have widely condemned the arrest as politically motivated.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also criticised the detention, describing it as “a dangerous sign of how far our country has descended into intolerance and repression.”

Amnesty International echoed these concerns, insisting that “criticising a president or a governor … is not a crime.”

Controversial Policy Requiring Pre-Approval of Sermons

The petition also highlights a new directive by Governor Bago’s administration requiring religious preachers to submit their sermons to the state for approval before delivering them publicly.

Defending the measure, Bago argued that it was a security precaution rather than a restriction on religious practice.

“I didn’t ban evangelism. Anyone going for Friday sermons should bring their scriptures for review, and it’s normal. Even in Saudi Arabia, this is done,” he said.

He added that the government could not allow clerics to preach messages deemed “anti-people” or “anti-government.”

According to the governor, security agencies—including the DSS, police, NSCDC, and the military—will be actively involved in monitoring sermon content.

The state government is also introducing a licensing scheme for preachers. The Religious Affairs Bureau announced that all clerics must apply for a licence, complete a form, and undergo screening within two months.

Call for Visa Ban and Asset Freeze

The coalition urged the U.S. government to impose a visa ban on Governor Bago and his immediate family, as well as freeze any assets he may hold in the United States, pending an independent investigation into alleged misappropriation of public funds.

They argued that any sanctions should remain in place until all political detainees—including Mokwa—are released unconditionally, court orders are respected, and meaningful reforms are implemented in public education, healthcare, and security across Niger State.

‘Democratic Norms Are Eroding’

In their appeal, the petitioners warned that without decisive international action, Bago’s administration risks being remembered not only for deepening insecurity but also for the “erosion of civil liberties and democratic norms” in the state.