In Nigeria, the growing intolerance of some state governors toward criticism has become a worrying trend, threatening the country’s democratic values. Unlike President Bola Tinubu, who has faced both constructive and harsh criticism without retaliatory action, certain governors are using their power to silence dissent.

In Sokoto State, Shafi’u Umar Tureta, an aide to former Governor Aminu Tambuwal, was detained for questioning Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s academic qualifications and English fluency. He also mocked the governor’s wife’s lavish birthday celebration. Similarly, Hamdiyya Sidi was jailed for highlighting the worsening insecurity and poverty in the state.

In Kano State, journalist Muktar Dahiru was arrested for sharing interviews where opposition figures criticized Governor Abba Yusuf. In Kaduna State, social media user Abdul Majid Mustapha was assaulted after posting negative comments about Governor Uba Sani. Despite the state government distancing itself from the attack, many believe it was politically motivated.

Paul Gyenger was arrested for calling Governor Hyacinth Alia a “chronic womanizer.”

A 16-year-old boy, Umar Isah, was detained for insulting Governor Mai Mala Buni online.

Journalist Mustapha Bina was detained for reporting an alleged bandit attack on Governor Umaru Bago’s motorcade.

In some cases, police have been sent to other states to arrest critics, as seen when journalist Agba Jalingo was detained for publishing an article about the sister-in-law of former Cross River Governor Ben Ayade. Similarly, in Imo State, Fabian Ihekweme, a vocal critic of Governor Hope Uzodimma, was allegedly abducted by unidentified men linked to the governor.

This pattern of silencing dissent through arrests, intimidation, and detention undermines democracy and human rights. Critics argue that if state police are established, these governors might misuse them to suppress opposition even further.