Uba Sani Critic’s Arrest Sparks Outcry As Amnesty Demands Release

Amnesty International has condemned the arrest and continued detention of Mr. Jonah Bonet, better known as “Pompo,” and called the arrest arbitrary and a violation of his right to freedom of expression.

In a statement issued on its official X account on Saturday, the rights organisation called for the immediate and unconditional release of Bonet.

Amnesty International said Bonet was arrested just for criticizing the Kaduna State Government and Governor Uba Sani in a viral video on social media.

Mr. Bonet is innocent of any crime and his arrest is a clear abuse of power. “It is his right to criticise any official of the government, whatever his position or status,” the organisation said.

Armed operatives attached to “Operation Fushin Kada” invaded Bonet’s residence in Abuja at about 8:15 p.m. on June 23, 2026 and whisked him away at gunpoint in the presence of his wife and kids, Amnesty said.

The organisation also claimed that Bonet’s family and legal representatives have been denied access to him, while security agencies have refused to reveal his whereabouts.

It accused Nigerian security agencies of failing to follow due process and of allowing themselves to be used to suppress dissent through arbitrary arrests and detentions.
“Nigerian security agencies must always uphold due process of law and not become a tool in the hands of politicians by carrying out arbitrary arrest, detention and other undue restrictions of the rights of individuals to the legitimate exercise of their freedom of expression and opinion,” Amnesty said.

The group also accused the Kaduna State Government of heightening repression by cracking down on critics, warning that it was creating “a toxic climate of fear” in the state.

It further accused Governor Uba Sani of intolerance to criticism, insisting that no citizen ought to be punished for expressing opinion on elected public officials.

Amnesty International also warned of what it called increasing intimidation of Nigerians who use social media to comment on political and social issues, saying attempts to stifle online criticism are a violation of basic human rights.

The organisation urged the authorities to immediately release Bonet and respect the rights guaranteed under Nigerian law and international human rights standards.

At the time of filing this report, the Kaduna State Government and security agencies have not responded to the allegations by Amnesty International.