Kano Govt Replies Amnesty International,Re-affirms Commitment To Freedom Of Expression, Peaceful Dissent
By Abdullahi Yusuf
Kano State Government says it is committed to freedom of expression,
peaceful dissent, fundamental human rights, the rule of law and due process, as guaranteed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The commitment is contained in a statement signed by Aminu Hussaini Esq.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Justice and Constitutional Matters.
“The attention of the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Justice and Constitutional Matters has been drawn to a statement attributed to Amnesty International alleging a pattern of arrests, detention and intimidation of critics of the Kano State Government and expressed concern over the alleged restriction of freedom of expression in the State.
“The Kano State Government takes such concerns seriously and wishes to reaffirm, unequivocally, its commitment to freedom of expression, peaceful dissent, fundamental human rights, the rule of law and due process, as guaranteed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Hussaini said.
He also said that the Government has neither a policy nor an institutional directive to arrest, detain or intimidate citizens merely because they criticise the Governor, his Administration or its policies.
He stated that legitimate criticism and peaceful expression of divergent views are integral to democratic governance.
“It is, however, important to distinguish between the exercise of constitutionally protected expression and allegations of conduct that may constitute an offence under applicable laws,” the special adviser said
He pointed out that where security or law-enforcement agencies receive credible complaints or information concerning alleged criminal conduct, they are legally empowered to investigate and where necessary, take appropriate action in accordance with the law.
“Such investigative or law-enforcement action should not, without a proper examination of the facts and circumstances of each case, automatically be characterised as persecution or suppression of dissent simply because the person concerned is critical of Government.
“With respect to the specific individuals referenced in the Amnesty International statement, the Government considers it appropriate that each case be assessed on its own facts, including the circumstances leading to any invitation, arrest or detention, the nature of the allegation, the applicable law and where relevant, any proceedings or orders of a competent court,” he said.
Hussain said the Government equally reiterates that no citizen should be arrested or detained solely for expressing a lawful opinion or criticising a public official or government policy.
“Where there is credible evidence of unlawful detention, denial of due process or abuse of fundamental rights, such concerns deserve to be properly examined and appropriately addressed.
“At the same time, the constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression does not confer immunity from generally applicable laws where conduct, established upon due process, crosses the legal threshold into a criminal offence,” he said.
He said the Kano State Government, therefore, welcomes responsible engagement with human-rights organisations, including Amnesty International and remains open to receiving specific and verifiable information concerning any alleged violation of fundamental rights within the State.
“The Administration of His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, remains firmly committed to democratic governance, constitutionalism and rule of law, protection of fundamental rights and the peaceful coexistence of citizens holding diverse political opinions,” the statement added.