Hadejia Protest: Residents Demand Justice for 18-Year-Old Walida as Family Disputes Minister’s Age Claim

Tensions are rising in Hadejia, Jigawa State, as residents took to the streets demanding justice for 18-year-old Walida Abdulhadi, who was allegedly abducted by a Department of State Services (DSS) officer identified as Ifeanyi.

The protest, which drew lawyers, women’s groups and civil society organisations, culminated at the palace of the Emir of Hadejia, where demonstrators submitted a formal petition urging authorities to ensure the suspect faces prosecution.

Community Outrage Over Alleged Plan to Free Suspect

Leading the protest, Dr Hussaini Shehu, Chairman of the Hadejia Ina Mafita Initiative, said residents were alarmed by what they described as moves to free the officer.

“Our demonstration is to register our dismay and to make it clear that no one is above the law,” he said, vowing sustained advocacy until justice is served.

Representing the Emir, Abubakar Sulaiman, Secretary of the Emirate Council, assured protesters that the palace would pursue appropriate action and monitor developments closely.

Lawyer Rejects Minister’s Statement on Victim’s Age

Walida’s lawyer, Barrister Kabiru Adamu, accused both the DSS and the Minister of Women Affairs of distorting key facts about the case.

He dismissed claims — reportedly aired on the Nigerian Television Authority — that Walida was 22 at the time of the alleged abduction.

Describing the statement as “misleading and inaccurate,” the lawyer said Walida was born in 2008, a year after her parents married in 2007, making her 18 years old.

“It is incorrect to state that she was 22 at the time of the incident,” he insisted, arguing that misrepresenting her age undermines the seriousness of the case.

Calls for Accountability

The case has sparked broader conversations in Jigawa about accountability within security agencies and the protection of young women.

Protesters say they will continue peaceful demonstrations until authorities provide clear answers and ensure due process.

As pressure mounts, attention now turns to whether law enforcement agencies and the Ministry of Women Affairs will respond to the allegations and address the conflicting claims surrounding Walida’s age.