Amnesty International Raises Alarm Over Alleged DSS Crackdown on Nigerians Criticising U.S. and Israel

The global human rights organisation, Amnesty International, has raised serious concerns over what it describes as a growing crackdown by Nigeria’s secret police on citizens expressing critical views about the governments of the United States and Israel in relation to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

In a statement released on Friday, Amnesty International said it was “deeply concerned” about reports of arrests, detentions, and intimidation allegedly carried out by the Department of State Services (DSS). According to the organisation, these actions appear to target Nigerians who have shared opinions or commentary on social media platforms regarding the war and the policies of the U.S. and Israeli governments.

Allegations of Arrests and Intimidation

Amnesty International revealed that at least two individuals residing in Kaduna have already been detained by the DSS in connection with their online comments about the Middle East crisis. The group further claimed that one of the detainees is currently being prepared for trial on what it described as “bogus charges.”

Beyond the confirmed detentions, the organisation said it has received several reports indicating that more Nigerians who criticised the U.S. and Israeli governments online have been contacted by security officials. Some of these individuals, Amnesty said, were reportedly summoned or “invited” by the DSS for questioning over their social media posts.

Human rights advocates warn that such actions could signal a troubling shift toward authoritarian tendencies within Nigeria’s security framework, particularly in relation to freedom of expression and digital rights.

Concerns Over Authoritarian Practices

In its statement, Amnesty International cautioned that the alleged pattern of arrests and interrogations could erode democratic values and create an atmosphere of fear among citizens.

The organisation stated that it is “deeply concerned by the escalating clampdown by the Department of State Services on social media commentaries regarding the ongoing war in the Middle East.”

According to the group, these measures risk undermining public trust in state institutions and could discourage Nigerians from exercising their constitutional rights.

“These growing authoritarian practices by the Nigerian authorities undermine human rights and weaken confidence in the neutrality of state institutions,” Amnesty International said. “They also create a toxic climate of fear where citizens may feel unsafe expressing their views.”

Freedom of Expression Under Nigerian and International Law

Amnesty International emphasised that criticism of any government—whether domestic or foreign—is a legitimate and protected form of expression.

The organisation pointed out that the right to freedom of expression is guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended). It also noted that Nigeria is a signatory to several international agreements that protect free speech, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

Under these legal frameworks, individuals are entitled to express opinions, debate public issues, and critique government policies without fear of arrest or intimidation, provided such expression remains peaceful.

Amnesty International therefore urged Nigerian authorities to immediately halt any actions that may violate these rights.

“Nigerian authorities must end the growing repression and attacks on critics simply for peacefully exercising their human rights,” the organisation stated.

Calls for Government Action

The rights group also called on the Nigerian government to ensure that freedom of expression is respected both online and offline.

With the growing influence of social media platforms in shaping public discourse, Amnesty stressed that digital spaces must remain open environments where citizens can debate international events and political issues without fear of persecution.

“Targeting individuals for criticising the U.S. and Israeli governments would send a chilling message that peaceful dissent is not tolerated in Nigeria,” the organisation warned.

It further urged authorities to refrain from any actions that could be interpreted as an attempt to suppress legitimate public debate about international conflicts.

The Case of Abubakar Adamu

Amnesty International’s statement comes amid increasing controversy surrounding the arrest of Kaduna-based social media user Abubakar Adamu. His case is currently before the Federal High Court of Nigeria.

According to court documents, the DSS filed a counter-affidavit claiming that a post made by Adamu on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) could potentially provoke international tensions involving Nigeria.

The agency alleged that Adamu, who reportedly operates the account identified as @AbbakarAffan, published a comment that called for the elimination of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Security officials argued that such statements could go beyond online discourse and have diplomatic consequences for Nigeria.

In its filing before the court, the DSS maintained that the post had the potential to escalate tensions in a manner similar to ongoing hostilities involving Israel and Iran.

“Such a post could lead to international conflict involving Nigeria,” the agency told the court, warning that inflammatory comments on global political issues could have serious implications.

Bail Concerns and Legal Arguments

The DSS also argued that Adamu should not be granted bail while the case is ongoing. According to the agency, the charges against him are severe and could attract significant penalties under Nigerian law.

Prosecutors reportedly told the court that if convicted, the accused could face a lengthy prison sentence, potentially including life imprisonment.

However, Amnesty International suggested that the case might represent a broader trend in which Nigerians who publicly criticise foreign governments—particularly in relation to the Middle East conflict—are increasingly being targeted by security agencies.

Growing Debate Over Digital Rights in Nigeria

The controversy has reignited debate about freedom of speech and digital rights in Nigeria, particularly regarding how security agencies interpret and enforce laws related to online expression.

In recent years, civil society groups and media freedom advocates have warned that increasing scrutiny of social media activity could undermine democratic participation and civic engagement.

For many observers, the outcome of cases like that of Abubakar Adamu may have far-reaching implications for how Nigerians discuss international politics, government policies, and global conflicts online.

Amnesty International concluded its statement by urging Nigerian authorities to reaffirm their commitment to human rights and democratic values.

“The Nigerian authorities must uphold and ensure the human rights of everyone in the country, including the right to freedom of expression both online and offline,” the organisation said.

As the debate continues, many Nigerians and human rights observers will be watching closely to see how the government balances national security concerns with the fundamental freedoms guaranteed under both domestic and international law.