Amnesty International Nigeria has called on the Federal Government to either charge Bristol Tamunobiefiri, known as PIDOM, or release him immediately.
PIDOM, a prominent social media activist running the account “99% Oppressed,” was detained on August 5, 2024, at his hotel room in Rivers State.
In a statement posted on their official X account, Amnesty International emphasized the necessity for the Nigerian authorities to adhere to legal standards by providing PIDOM with access to his family and legal representation. The organization asserted, “The Nigerian government must uphold the rule of law by either charging PIDOM in court or releasing him from detention without delay.”
Amnesty International underscored that torture and ill-treatment are strictly prohibited under international law and that all detainees have the right to protections enshrined in these laws.
The arrest was confirmed by officials from the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) on Friday. According to a statement from Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobion, PIDOM faces serious allegations including unlawful possession, leaking classified documents, and cyber-related offenses.
ACP Adejobion assured that a thorough investigation will be conducted, with the police committed to upholding the law and ensuring national security.
This development follows investigative journalist David Hundeyin’s disclosure that PIDOM, the anonymous whistleblower behind the account “99% Oppressed,” remains in police custody and is expected to be brought before the court next week.
