A young woman, Hamdiyya Sidi, has been declared missing just days before the continuation of her trial with the Sokoto State Government at a magistrate court.
The development was made public in a statement posted on Wednesday by her lawyer, Abba Hikima, via his official Facebook page.
According to Hikima, Hamdiyya left her home around 10:00 p.m. on Tuesday to buy food but has not returned and has not been seen since.
“Hamdiyya has been missing since 10:00 p.m. yesterday. She left home to buy food in Sokoto and has not been seen since,” the statement read.
Hikima confirmed that the Sokoto State Police Command has been notified and is currently handling the case.
Her disappearance has sparked concern among local, national, and international observers, particularly in light of the politically sensitive nature of the charges against her.
Hamdiyya is currently facing prosecution by the Sokoto State Government on charges of “use of insulting or abusive language” and “inciting public disturbance,” following public criticism of the Governor of Sokoto State, Mr. Ahmed Aliyu.
Human rights organizations and civil society groups have voiced alarm over her sudden disappearance, with many fearing that her life may be in danger due to the ongoing legal and political tensions surrounding the case.
