Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has accused Nigeria’s secret police, the Department of State Services, of unlawfully arresting a social media influencer over comments about the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Iran.
Sowore made the allegation in a statement shared online, claiming the influencer was detained for expressing opinions about the war.
According to Sowore, the influencer identified as Sarki was picked up by security operatives after posting comments critical of Israel’s actions in the Middle East conflict.
He said the arrest was linked to remarks about the war in Gaza and the wider confrontation involving Iran and Israel.
“I have learned that the DSS has arbitrarily detained a social media influencer known as Sarki,” Sowore wrote.
He described the detention as unlawful and said no citizen should be arrested for discussing international issues.
Sowore demanded that the security agency release the influencer immediately.
He argued that freedom of expression should protect Nigerians who comment on global events, including wars involving foreign countries.
According to him, democracy cannot function properly if people are punished for sharing opinions online.
The activist warned that such actions could damage Nigeria’s democratic reputation.
He said citizens must be allowed to speak freely on political and international matters without fear of arrest.
At the time of filing this report, the Department of State Services has not released an official statement confirming or denying the alleged detention.
How did this story make you feel?
Join the conversation
Share a thoughtful response. Submissions may be reviewed before appearing.
