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Facebook User Regains Freedom After Detention Over Post on Speaker Abbas’ Wife

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In what appears to be another case of freedom of speech under attack in Nigeria, Suleiman Barde, a Facebook user who was arrested and detained in Kaduna, has now been released following public outcry and intervention by rights activist Omoyele Sowore.

Barde was arrested and thrown into prison after publishing a Facebook post critical of Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, particularly involving allegations concerning his wife. According to Sahara Reporters, the arrest raised immediate concerns among civil rights groups and Nigerians online, who decried the growing trend of using state machinery to intimidate private citizens over online comments.

Human rights advocate and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore led the charge for Barde's release, publicly criticizing the abuse of power and calling for his immediate freedom. Sowore emphasized that public office holders must learn to respect the rights of Nigerians to express their opinions—especially on social media, which has become a major platform for civic engagement.

“Speaker Abbas should stop abusing his office by detaining people who criticize him or his family. This is a democracy, not a dictatorship,” Sowore stated.

Following sustained pressure, Barde was released from custody. Many Nigerians have since lauded Sowore’s effort, while urging lawmakers and security agencies to uphold citizens’ constitutional rights, particularly the right to freedom of expression.

The case has sparked fresh debates about Nigeria’s Cybercrime Act and the controversial Section 24, which has been used repeatedly to arrest critics. Legal experts and activists are renewing calls for reforms to prevent future misuse.

This incident is a stark reminder of the fragile state of civil liberties in Nigeria and the urgent need for accountability and reform in how digital expressions are treated under the law.


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