ADC condemns detention of Kebbi journalist over viral hospital video

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the detention of journalist Hassan Mai-Waya Kangiwa in Kebbi State after he exposed the poor state of a government hospital in a viral video.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the party’s National Spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, expressed solidarity with Kangiwa, describing his arrest as an attack on press freedom and accountability. Abdullahi also called on the Kebbi State Government to respect the fundamental rights of journalists and immediately release him.

“We call on the Kebbi State Government to immediately release Hassan and respect the fundamental rights of journalists to report the truth. I urge all Nigerians who believe in accountability and good governance to repost this 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,” Abdullahi stated.

Kangiwa was reportedly arrested on the orders of state Governor shortly after the video filmed at Kangiwa General Hospital which shows an elderly patient lying on a metal bed frame with no mattress began circulating online, this sparked public outrage and condemnation of the state of healthcare in Kebbi.

Civil society organisations and media stakeholders have joined the call for the release of Kangiwa, arguing his continued detention is damaging to press freedom and the public’s right to know.

ADC condemns detention of Kebbi journalist over viral hospital video