BREAKING: Man Detained for 5 Months in Kogi Over Facebook Post

In a shocking human rights violation, a young Nigerian man, Sadiq Abdulhameed—popularly known on social media as Ododo D’Flower Boiz Vanguard—has reportedly spent five months in a Kogi State prison for a Facebook post criticizing a top government official.

According to reports by Sahara Reporters, Sadiq was arrested in February 2025 for allegedly criticizing the Kogi State Accountant-General. His online post, though not threatening, was deemed offensive by the authorities. Instead of responding through official means, the state’s security agents arrested him and threw him behind bars—without proper trial, bail, or legal representation.

This incident has sparked nationwide outrage, with many Nigerians expressing concerns over the shrinking space for freedom of expression in the country. Legal experts have described his prolonged detention as unconstitutional and a gross abuse of power. “Freedom of speech is a right protected by the Nigerian Constitution,” said one human rights lawyer. “Detaining someone for exercising that right is unlawful and deeply disturbing.”

Sadiq’s case is just one among many incidents of social media repression that continue to threaten democracy in Nigeria. Citizens are increasingly being targeted for online opinions that challenge public officials or expose corruption. The situation is even more alarming in states like Kogi, where dissent is met with intimidation and detention.

Family members of Sadiq have appealed for his immediate release, calling on civil rights groups, the media, and the judiciary to intervene. Activists have also urged President Bola Tinubu to address human rights violations at the state level.

As the call for justice grows louder, this case serves as a reminder that freedom of expression must not be silenced. Nigerians have a right to speak—and should never be jailed for doing so.