Buni Orders Release Of Teenager Detained For Insulting Him On Social Media

Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has issued a directive ordering the immediate release of a teenager detained by the police for allegedly insulting him on social media.

The father of the teenager, Garba Isa, had told journalists that officers had on December 11, 2022, arrested his son for allegedly insulting the governor on social media and called on the authorities to consider releasing his son.

But a statement by the Director-General, Press Affairs and Media, to Governor Buni, Mamman Mohammed, on Tuesday, said the governor was not aware of the arrest or detention.

 According to the statement, Governor Buni sees it as grossly unnecessary to arrest anyone for insulting or criticising him.

“This is the price of leadership and we are fully conscious of it, therefore, l couldn’t have ordered nor condoned the detention of anyone.

“Until someone drew my attention to it, l wasn’t aware of his arrest and detention, l have now directed his immediate release from detention.
 
“It is, however, important to note that although the Buni administration runs an open government, contributions and criticisms should be constructive and meaningful.

“Social media users are also reminded to be responsive and responsible to respect the rights of everyone, political party, religious and socio-cultural differences most especially as the political campaigns are ongoing,” Mohammed wrote.

The statement further stated that the teenager should be immediately released.