Amnesty International has condemned what it described as the arbitrary arrest and detention of Kano-based journalist Ibrahim Dan’uwa Rano, calling for his immediate and unconditional release.
In a statement, Amnesty International Nigeria expressed concern that Rano was being held at the Zonal Police Headquarters over allegations of defamation of character, saying the arrest violates his constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of expression.
“The unlawful arrest of Ibrahim Dan’uwa Rano simply for doing his job is part of a growing pattern where police are being misused to target independent media voices, instill fear, and curb press freedom,” the organization said.
Amnesty also faulted the police claim that Rano was operating an online television station without a license from the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), describing it as “a desperate and illegitimate attempt to silence critical voices.”
“It is perfectly within his right to use an online platform to share his views and opinions. What happened to the journalist poses a significant threat to media freedom and the public’s right to information,” the group added.
The rights organization urged the police to release Rano immediately and cease all attempts to intimidate or silence him, while calling on authorities to safeguard journalists’ ability to operate freely, safely, and without harassment.
Speaking at a media chat in Lagos, Amnesty International Nigeria’s senior official, Mrs. Benedicta Ofili, decried the rising trend of clampdowns on freedom of speech, warning that it undermines Nigeria’s democracy.
“Freedom of expression remains a major challenge in Nigeria. Journalists and citizens who criticize government policies are often arrested without access to bail or their families,” she said.
Ofili added that the government must learn to tolerate dissenting opinions, noting that constructive criticism should be viewed as a tool for progress, not rebellion.
“Inviting critics in a hostile manner does not solve the problem—it only silences public discourse,” she said.
Amnesty International reaffirmed its commitment to defending media freedom and urged Nigerian authorities to respect journalists’ rights and the rule of law.
Writing by Innocent Onoh