The Kebbi State Government has denied allegations that it is using magistrates’ and area courts to harass and intimidate perceived political opponents.
The claims were made by the Centre for Reforms and Public Advocacy, which alleged that more than 20 individuals, mostly opposition figures, had been jailed on what it described as “frivolous charges.”
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Monday, the Head of Legal Services at the Centre, Kalu Kalu Agu, accused Kebbi officials of misusing judicial processes for political ends. He cited cases including Ibrahim Adamu Augie, allegedly arrested for sharing a video on health issues in the state, and Mukhtar Dan Baturiya, detained over comments deemed critical of the government.
Others reportedly affected include Ahmad Tijjani Musa and Ibrahim Bature, said to have been targeted for expressing dissenting views on public matters.
Reacting, Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, on Tuesday dismissed the accusations as unfounded and politically motivated.
He said the administration would not be distracted by what he termed “false narratives” aimed at derailing its focus on governance.
