Kogi Resident Detained for Five Months Over Critical Facebook Post

Kogi Resident Detained for Five Months Over Critical Facebook Post

In what many are calling a troubling case of online censorship, a Kogi State man, Sadiq Abdulhameed—known on Facebook as *Ododo D’Flower Boiz Vanguard (Fancy)*—has spent the past five months behind bars after posting criticism of a top state official.

Sadiq was arrested in February 2025, shortly after publishing a post on February 13 in which he openly criticized the conduct of Kogi State’s Accountant General, Dr. Habibat Oyiza Tijjani. His comments centered on allegations that Dr. Tijjani fostered a climate of fear among civil servants and interfered in the responsibilities of other officials, including local government chairpersons.

The controversial post has reportedly led to Sadiq’s detention at the Federal Medium Security Custodial Centre in Koton Karfe, where he remains to this day. Despite numerous appeals from family, friends, and civil society advocates, his release has not been granted.

Sources familiar with the case claim that Dr. Tijjani used her influence to keep Sadiq detained without trial. “Five months have gone by—five long months of sleepless nights and lost days behind bars,” one source lamented, emphasizing the emotional and psychological toll on the detainee and his loved ones.

As the situation draws increasing public attention, calls for justice and respect for freedom of expression in Nigeria are growing louder. Observers are urging authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly and uphold the rights of citizens to express their opinions—especially when they concern public officials and governance.