Khalid Aminu, a dedicated advocate for better governance in Nigeria, has spoken out after spending 11 grueling weeks in detention under the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS). His crime? Participating in protests against bad governance in Nigeria.
Aminu, along with two other activists—Usman Isa Adebayo and Salihu Shuaibu—was arrested during the protests. The protests, part of the larger #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement, had spread across the country as Nigerians voiced their frustration with systemic corruption, poor governance, and lack of accountability from political leaders.
The trio was arrested and charged in court, facing accusations that many considered baseless. However, on October 17, their case was thrown out by the Federal High Court in Kaduna due to lack of evidence. The DSS, which had prosecuted the activists, applied to withdraw the charges, signaling a significant victory for the activists and the broader movement.
Speaking after his release, Aminu took to social media to express his relief and share his experience. “Today, the chains of 11 weeks of unjust detention by the DSS have fallen,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Their accusations dissolved before the Federal High Court in Kaduna, where the case against me—rooted in my stand for justice in the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest—was struck out.”
He accompanied his post with before-and-after photos, showing the stark difference in his physical condition before his arrest and after his release. In the “before” photo, Aminu appeared healthy and robust. In the “after” photo, however, he looked gaunt and visibly weakened, a reminder of the toll the 11-week detention had taken on him.
‘My Spirit Remained Intact’
Despite his physical deterioration, Aminu’s spirit remained strong. “Though confined in body, my spirit remained intact—unyielding in the face of oppression,” he added, emphasizing his resolve to continue the fight for justice.
The story of Aminu’s ordeal has touched many Nigerians, especially those who have been actively involved in the protests. His release has been met with widespread support on social media, with thousands of people praising his courage and calling for continued efforts to hold the government accountable.
One supporter, Charles OluwaFemi, tweeted: “WTF, Welcome Back Brother! I wish you a quick recovery. Damn, this country is an animal kingdom. Why will you treat someone like this because of #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest? Damnit, 11 crazy weeks!”
Another user, Captain Tango, responded with a prayer: “May your efforts not go in vain, Insha Allahu.”
The Fight for Justice Continues
The #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests have brought attention to deep-rooted problems in the Nigerian political system. Much like the earlier #EndSARS movement that sought to end police brutality, this new wave of protests targets the inefficiencies and injustices that Nigerians experience daily.
The DSS has come under fire for its treatment of protesters, with many accusing the agency of abusing its power and violating citizens’ rights. Activists argue that instead of silencing those who speak out, the government should be addressing the legitimate concerns being raised.
Aminu’s final message after his release was one of hope and determination. “There is hope,” he tweeted. “The fight for justice and equity is just beginning and will consume all who stand for any forms of injustice and oppression. Welcome back, comrade!”
The #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement may have started as a protest, but it is quickly becoming a national call for accountability, justice, and lasting change.
