NHRC Condemns Unlawful Arrest Of Kebbi Journalist, Welcomes His Release With Compensation

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.

Hassan Mai-Waya Kangiwa was unlawfully detained for exposing the deplorable conditions at Kangiwa General Hospital in Kebbi State.

Reacting to the news of Kangiwa’s release, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, stated that his detention was a blatant violation of human rights and freedom of expression by the Kebbi State Government.

He said: “We commend the payment of ₦200,000 in compensation to Kangiwa by the Kebbi State Government for his unlawful detention, which sets a positive precedent for protecting victims of human rights violations.”

Speaking further, Dr. Ojukwu said, “The constitution provides for an apology and the payment of compensation. We are still awaiting a 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, for gross negligence and dereliction of duty within his ministry.

“His jurisdiction significantly impacts the protection of the rights to life and health, which should be taken with the utmost seriousness,” he added.

Dr. Ojukwu reiterated the importance of press freedom and the role of journalists in holding public officials accountable.

He used the opportunity to urge the Kebbi State Government to prioritize the well-being of its citizens and ensure that healthcare facilities meet basic standards.

He stated that the Commission will continue to monitor the situation, ensuring that human rights are protected and those responsible for violations are held accountable.

Addressing those who played a role, especially the media, in exposing the unlawful arrest and detention, Dr. Ojukwu 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.”