Amnesty International has condemned the closure of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) office by the Sokoto State Government, describing the action as an attempt to suppress opposition and undermine freedom of association.
The human rights organisation said the government’s justification, based on an alleged dispute over ownership of the building, was arbitrary and aimed at restricting the activities of opposition parties.
In a statement, Amnesty International accused the Sokoto State Government of demonstrating disregard for democratic principles by using state powers to suffocate the political space and give unlawful advantage to the ruling party.
It said the government’s explanation that it was reviewing the Certificate of Occupancy and other relevant documents relating to the building was an attempt to undermine political pluralism.
The organisation noted that the closure came days after the convoy of ADC governorship candidate, Hon. Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, was reportedly attacked by suspected gunmen near the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport on Friday, October 30.
Amnesty International expressed concern over what it described as continuing violations of political rights and the failure of security agencies in the state to ensure the rule of law and protect citizens’ rights to engage in peaceful political activities.
It said the prevailing atmosphere of fear and intimidation in Sokoto was restricting freedom of assembly and association.
The organisation called on security agencies to take adequate measures to prevent further deterioration of the human rights situation in the state and ensure that political parties can operate freely without intimidation or unlawful interference.
