Mr Hassan Mai-Waya Kangiwa, a journalist based in Kebbi State, Northwestern Nigeria, was arrested and detained in September 2025 on the orders of the State Governor, Mr Nasir Idris, for releasing a video showing the deplorable conditions at the Kangiwa General Hospital.
Reports stated that security operatives raided his home at night, seized his equipment, arrested him, and cut him off from legal access.
The ‘offending’ clip, which showed an elderly patient lying on a bare metal bed frame without a mattress, spread quickly across social media, drawing strong reactions and condemnations from netizens.
Following the arrest, the hashtag #FreeHassanKangiwaNow trended on social media as users reshared the video and criticised the Governor.
However, the Kebbi State government later released and paid ₦200,000 to him in compensation for his unlawful detention.
