The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has condemned the unlawful arrest of kebbi journalist Hassan Mai-Waya for carrying out his constitutional duty to inform the public and hold public officials accountable.
It will be recalled that the journalist Hassan Mai-Waya Kangiwa, was unlawfully detained for exposing the deplorable conditions at Kangiwa General Hospital in Kebbi State.
Reacting to the news about Kangiwa’s release the Executive Secretary of Commission Dr. Tony Ojukwu OFR, SAN, said his detention was a blatant violation of human rights and freedom of expression by the Kebbi state government.
“We however commend the payment of ₦200,000 in compensation to Kangiwa for his unlawful detention, by the Kebbi state government, which sets a positive precedent for protecting victims of human rights violations” Ojukwu said.
Speaking further the NHRC Boss said “the constitution provides for apology and payment of compensation. We are still awaiting for the public apology by the Kebbi state government to fully comply with the constitutional requirement”.
“We also welcome the suspension of the Kebbi State Commissioner for Health, Yunusa Isma’il, over gross negligence and abandonment of duty within his ministry. His jurisdiction has a lot to do with the protection of the rights to life and health which should be taken with all the seriousness it deserves” the Senior Advocates of Nigeria added.
The Cheif Human Rights Officer of Nigeria reiterates the importance of press freedom and the role of journalists in holding public officials accountable. He used this platform to urge the Kebbi State Government to prioritize citizens’ well-being and ensure healthcare facilities meet basic standards.
He said the Commission will continue to monitor the situation, ensuring that human rights are protected and those responsible for violations are held accountable.
To everyone who has played one role or the other especially the media in exposing the unlawful arrest and detention, the Learned Silk said “We appreciate the attention given to this matter and look forward to continued collaboration with stakeholders to promote and protect human rights in Nigeria.
