Prominent social media influencer Chizorom Harrison Ofoegbu, widely known as 'Ijele Speaks,' has now spent a full year in detention following his criticism of Evangelist Ebuka Obi, founder of Zion Prayer Movement Outreach. Ijele, who was arrested on March 19, 2024, faces charges of cybercrime and criminal defamation. His detention has sparked widespread concern among activists and free speech advocates, who argue that his case highlights the misuse of legal frameworks to suppress dissent.
Ijele's legal team has repeatedly raised alarms about his deteriorating health, citing reports of inadequate medical care during his time at the Nigeria Correctional Centre in Ikoyi, Lagos. Despite being granted bail by the Federal High Court in Lagos in June 2024, procedural delays and alleged interference have kept him behind bars.
In response to this ongoing situation, a coalition of activists and pro-democracy groups has announced plans for a nationwide protest on April 7, 2025. The demonstration, titled "Free Speech Under Siege," aims to draw attention to the broader implications of Ijele's detention and the perceived weaponization of the Cybercrime Act against journalists, activists, and social media influencers.
"We cannot remain silent while voices of dissent are silenced under the guise of legal action," said Juwon Sanyaolu, National Coordinator of the Take-It-Back movement. "This protest is not just about Ijele; it's about safeguarding the fundamental right to free speech for all Nigerians."