Amnesty International has called on the Nigerian authorities to immediately release Ismail Kaigama, a youth leader from Borno State, following what it described as his arbitrary arrest by the Department of State Services (DSS).
According to the rights organization, Kaigama was arrested shortly after appearing on a television programme where he raised concerns about the persistent security crisis in Borno State. During the interview, he reportedly made allegations regarding alleged ransom payments to bandits and insurgents.
Amnesty International said the circumstances surrounding Kaigama’s arrest have raised serious concerns, urging the authorities to either release him immediately, grant him access to legal representation, or formally charge him before a competent court.
The organization argued that, rather than detaining Kaigama and denying him access to lawyers, the government should focus on conducting an impartial and independent investigation into the allegations he made during the interview.
Amnesty International also highlighted the worsening security situation across northern Nigeria, noting that millions of people continue to face relentless attacks by armed groups and insurgents.
The organization said the prolonged violence has deprived many residents of their rights to life and freedom of movement, while thousands of children have been abducted and denied access to education. It added that numerous rural communities have been destroyed and abandoned, forcing millions of people to flee their homes.
The rights group urged the Nigerian authorities to uphold the rule of law, protect freedom of expression, and address the underlying security challenges affecting communities across the region.
