18-year-old Sokoto activist declared missing after criticising governor

Hamdiyya Sidi Sharif, an 18-year-old activist from Sokoto State known for her outspoken criticism of Governor Ahmed Aliyu, has been declared missing.

Sharif came into the spotlight in November 2024 after releasing a video condemning the governor’s handling of insecurity in the state.

In the video, she urged internally displaced persons (IDPs) to occupy the governor’s office in protest.

Following the viral video, she was arrested by the Sokoto State Police Command and charged with “use of insulting or abusive language” and “inciting disturbance.” She was later released on bail.

However, reports indicate that after her release, Sharif was subjected to physical attacks, including abduction and assault, resulting in severe injuries.

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In February 2025, she was arraigned before a Sokoto magistrate court, and the case was adjourned to March 14. Since then, little has been heard from her, and her current whereabouts remain unknown.

The Sokoto State Government has yet to issue an official statement regarding her disappearance.