The Governor of Yobe State,Hon. Mai Mala Buni, has ordered the immediate release of a teenager who was arrested by the Police Operatives for allegedly insulting him on social media.
Mallam Garba Isa, father of the teenager, while speaking with journalists stated that Police had on December 11, 2022, arrested his son for allegedly insulting the governor on social media,hence he called on the authorities to consider releasing his son.
Reacting to this, the Governor mentioned that he was unaware of the detention and ordered the immediate release of the boy.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the director general (Press Affairs and Media) to Governor Buni, Mamman Mohammed, on Tuesday which stated that the Governor, who was not aware of the arrest and detention, said it was 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.
The Governor urged social media users to be responsible and respect the rights of everyone.
“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 said.
