Amnesty International has welcomed the swift action taken by Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, following the brutal assault on the councillor representing Shamaki Ward, Abdulrahman Abubakar Shariff, describing the move as a strong signal against impunity and human rights abuses.
In a statement, the rights organisation said the governor’s response sends a clear message that human rights violations are unacceptable, regardless of the individuals involved. It noted that the development could help curb political repression and thuggery in Gombe State.
Amnesty International, however, urged security agencies in the state to carry out their statutory responsibilities by ensuring that the governor’s aides reportedly involved in the assault, who were subsequently dismissed, are arrested, thoroughly investigated and prosecuted for what it described as grave human rights violations.
The organisation recalled that prior to the viral video of the assault, the Department of State Services (DSS) had detained the victim, Abdulrahman Abubakar Shariff, for four days. It stated that the DSS’s initial involvement in the matter should serve as a starting point for an impartial investigation and the prosecution of all suspects involved.
Amnesty International further stressed the need for authorities to guarantee the safety and security of Abdulrahman Abubakar Shariff and his family, warning that failure to do so could expose them to further harm.
The organisation reiterated its call for accountability and justice, noting that addressing the case transparently would strengthen public confidence in the rule of law and the protection of fundamental human rights in the state.
