The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has demanded the immediate release of Aisha Galadima, a political associate of former Kaduna State governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai.
Galadima was detained by the Department of Security Services (DSS) for allegedly criticising the state governor, Uba Sani.
She was reportedly arrested by the DSS in May 2024 following a post on her Facebook page criticising Sani and has been in detention since then.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its chairman in Kaduna State, Comrade Ali Attahiru, the CDHR said Galadima’s prolonged incarceration without trial was an infringement of her fundamental human rights.
The group demanded the activist’s immediate release or arraignment in court without further delay.
The statement read: “Aisha was originally detained by the DSS from her home address on 22nd May 2024. She was released from detention after she filed a suit for her fundamental rights.
“She was subsequently remanded at the Kaduna Correctional Centre after appearing before the Federal High Court at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna. However, six months later, her case is yet to be heard due to repeated court absences by the presiding judge.
“Later, she posted on her Facebook wall and was re-arrested. She appeared at the Federal High Court, NDA, Kaduna and was remanded in custody at the Kaduna Correctional Centre.
“Six months later, her case is yet to be heard. Every time she is in court, the judge does not attend. So she is languishing in prison in very inhumane conditions. She needs financial support for food, soap and other needs.
“The Governor of Kaduna State is now threatening anyone who opposes him with imprisonment. We need to protect our rights to democracy and free speech by supporting Aisha Galadima.”
The CDHR also accused Sani’s administration of suppressing opposition through intimidation and imprisonment.
It, therefore, urged the people of the state to stand up for democratic rights and free speech.
Source: Ripples