A man identified as Abdulhamid, popularly known by his online alias "Deflowerboy", has been arrested and remanded in custody over allegations of publishing defamatory content against Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo.
According to reports, the blogger was invited for interrogation by law enforcement agencies after being accused of authoring and disseminating a series of social media posts deemed injurious to the reputation of the governor. His invitation culminated in a formal arraignment before a court of law and a subsequent remand order.
Kogi State Government Confirms Legal Action
In an official statement addressing the incident, Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, confirmed the state government's involvement in the matter, noting that all actions taken were in accordance with legal procedures.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the state government acted within the confines of the law by formally petitioning the Commissioner of Police to investigate the publications and invite the individual to substantiate his claims,” Fanwo stated in a press release, as quoted by The Nation.
Fanwo further disclosed that Abdulhamid voluntarily honored the police invitation and, during questioning, confessed to being the author of the defamatory posts. He was subsequently charged and presented before a competent court, which ordered his remand pending further legal proceedings.
Social Media Claims of Illegal Detention Dismissed
Reacting to widespread online criticism and claims that the blogger was being detained unlawfully or persecuted for exercising his freedom of speech, the commissioner strongly refuted such narratives, labeling them “false, baseless, and deliberately misleading.”
“Defamation is a criminal offence under Nigerian law. It should not be confused with free speech. While the constitution guarantees freedom of expression, it does not give anyone the license to tarnish reputations or spread falsehoods,” Fanwo asserted.
Political Sabotage Alleged
The commissioner further alleged that Abdulhamid's actions were not merely personal, but rather part of a coordinated smear campaign by political adversaries unhappy with Governor Ododo’s administration.
“Unfortunately, Abdulhamid allowed himself to be manipulated by political actors who remain bitter about the reforms introduced by this government. These individuals are nostalgic for a past era of patronage and privilege, which the current administration has replaced with accountability and people-first governance,” Fanwo said.
Ododo Administration Committed to Development, Says Fanwo
Beyond the controversy, Fanwo used the opportunity to reiterate the Ododo-led government’s dedication to delivering democratic dividends across Kogi State.
“His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, remains focused on improving the lives of Kogi citizens through strategic investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and workers’ welfare,” he said.
He highlighted several ongoing initiatives, including erosion control efforts, electrification of rural communities, rehabilitation of schools, and support for pensioners, as proof of the administration's commitment to inclusive governance.
Legal Proceedings Ongoing
Meanwhile, court proceedings in the case are expected to continue, with the Kogi State Government vowing to pursue justice through the appropriate legal channels.
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