An 18-year-old woman, Hamdiyya Sidi Shariff, has been sentenced to two years in prison, 12 strokes of the cane, or a ₦50,000 fine after posting videos online criticizing the ongoing insecurity in Sokoto State.
Shariff was arrested in November 2024 after she shared a series of TikTok videos lamenting the relentless bandit attacks, widespread displacement of residents, and the sexual exploitation of women in the eastern part of the state.
Allegations and Trial
Authorities accused her of using “abusive language” against Governor Ahmed Aliyu and inciting the public through her social media content. However, according to court transcripts and reports, none of the seven videos submitted as evidence included incitement to violence or personal insults against the governor.
The case has sparked widespread public outrage, trending across social media platforms and drawing the attention of human rights organizations.
Assault and Legal Irregularities
Before her arrest, Shariff was reportedly abducted by armed men while attempting to retrieve her confiscated phone. She was allegedly assaulted and thrown from a moving tricycle, sustaining serious injuries. Despite her condition, she was later brought before both a Magistrates’ and a Sharia Court.
Amnesty International condemned the arrest and sentencing, describing the trial as a violation of her human rights. The group also raised alarm over the reported intimidation of her legal representative, Abba Hikima, calling the proceedings a clear attempt to suppress dissent and silence citizens speaking out against poor governance and insecurity.
“Rather than punishing citizens for exercising their right to free speech, the government should focus on addressing the grave insecurity affecting Sokoto residents,” Amnesty stated.
During a hearing in February 2025, translated video clips and a flash drive were presented as evidence. It was also revealed that Shariff’s statement was taken without legal counsel, a violation of her right to a fair trial. Despite these issues, the court proceeded with her sentencing.
Ongoing Reactions
The case continues to fuel debate over freedom of expression in Nigeria and the accountability of leaders in addressing the country’s worsening security situation. Activists, lawyers, and advocacy groups have called for Shariff’s immediate release and an independent review of the case.
