Human rights organisation Amnesty International has accused Nigeria’s secret police, the Department of State Services (DSS), of allegedly targeting individuals who have criticised the governments of the United States and Israel over the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
In a statement, Amnesty International said it was “deeply concerned” about what it described as an escalating clampdown on social media commentaries relating to the war. According to the organisation, several Nigerians who expressed critical views about the policies or actions of the U.S. and Israel have reportedly been detained or invited for questioning by the DSS.
The rights group claimed that at least two individuals in Kaduna had already been arrested, while one of them could face prosecution on what Amnesty described as “bogus charges.” It also alleged that other critics had been contacted or summoned by the security agency for interrogation over their online comments.
Amnesty warned that such actions could undermine freedom of expression and create a climate of fear among citizens who wish to share their views online. The organisation stressed that criticising the policies or leaders of any country falls within the scope of protected free speech under the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights laws.
The group therefore called on Nigerian authorities to end what it described as repression against individuals peacefully exercising their right to express opinions, both online and offline. It urged the government to ensure that security agencies respect constitutional rights and uphold democratic principles.
The allegations come amid growing debates in Nigeria about free speech, national security, and the role of online commentary in discussions about global political conflicts.
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