The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for the immediate and unconditional release of journalist Hassan Mai-Waya Kangiwa, who was detained by the Kebbi State Government after exposing the deplorable conditions at Kangiwa General Hospital.
The journalist’s arrest has sparked widespread condemnation from civil society organizations, media stakeholders, and political activists.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the ADC’s National Spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, expressed solidarity with Kangiwa, describing his detention as an attack on press freedom and accountability.
Abdullahi urged the Kebbi State Government to respect the fundamental rights of journalists and immediately release him.
More Than A Video
He further called on Nigerians who believe in accountability and good governance to repost the video until two things happen: 1. Hassan is released unconditionally, and 2. The Kebbi State Government addresses the urgent concerns raised about its healthcare system.
The video, which went viral on social media, showed an elderly patient lying on a bare metal bed frame without a mattress at Kangiwa General Hospital.
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The footage triggered widespread criticism, with many accusing state officials of targeting the messenger instead of addressing what they described as neglect in the healthcare system.
Words From The Opposition
Opposition activist Omoyele Sowore condemned the arrest, describing it as an act of “tyranny” by the governor, whom he accused of suppressing exposure of government failings.
He urged Nigerians to demand Kangiwa’s release. The Take It Back Movement, a pro-democracy group, also condemned the detention, calling it “sheer tyranny” and demanding Hassan’s immediate release.
On social media, the hashtag #FreeHassanKangiwaNow trended as users reshared the video and criticized the Kebbi State Government’s actions.
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One commenter wrote: “Instead of fixing the horrible state of the hospital, you decided to arrest a journalist doing his job of exposing the rot in society.”
As of now, neither the Kebbi State Government nor the police in Birnin Kebbi have issued an official statement regarding Kangiwa’s arrest or possible charges. Rights groups have been tagged in online campaigns calling for his release.
