Prominent Nigerian activist and politician, Omoyele Sowore, has condemned the Nigerian police for rearresting popular TikToker Seaking over allegations of cyberbullying involving Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). Sowore has called the actions of the police an alarming example of overreach and an attack on free speech in the country.
Seaking, a social media influencer, was initially detained in January over posts believed to be critical of Pastor Adeboye and the church. Despite her release on bail shortly thereafter, the police have now rearrested her under similar charges, causing widespread concern about the growing suppression of online expression in Nigeria.
Sowore, who is also the founder of the online news platform Sahara Reporters, expressed his frustration over the situation, stating, “The rearrest of Seaking is a clear attempt by the government and its agents to stifle free speech and intimidate Nigerians into silence. It is not just about Seaking. This is about the fundamental right to express one’s opinions and criticisms without fear of reprisal.”
The rearrest follows a viral TikTok video in which Seaking humorously criticized Pastor Adeboye’s lavish lifestyle, which some critics viewed as a form of cyberbullying. However, many Nigerians believe the charges are politically motivated and reflect a broader agenda to control the narrative surrounding public figures, including religious leaders.
“This incident raises serious questions about the role of the Nigerian police in protecting citizens' constitutional rights,” Sowore continued. “We must ask ourselves if the law is being used as a tool of oppression to silence dissent and stifle creativity. The police’s actions are shameful and dangerous for our democracy.”