DSS arrests social media influencer over his comments on Israel-Iran war

A human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, has accused Nigeria’s secret police of unlawfully detaining a social media influencer over comments about the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Iran.

Sowore made the claim in a statement shared on social media, alleging that the Department of State Services DSS arrested an influencer identified as Sarki because of remarks he made about the Israel–Iran conflict.

According to Sowore, the influencer was detained after posting comments criticising the actions of Israel, particularly regarding the ongoing war and its military operations in Gaza.

Sowore wrote: “I have learned that the lawless Department of State Services (DSS) has arbitrarily and unlawfully detained a social media influencer known as Sarki @Waspapping_.”

He further claimed that the arrest was linked to the influencer’s criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza and other areas affected by the conflict.

The activist strongly condemned the alleged detention, describing it as an attack on citizens’ rights to freely express opinions on international matters.

He argued that Nigerians should not face arrest simply for discussing global conflicts or criticising foreign governments.

Sowore stated that freedom of expression must cover conversations about international affairs, including wars involving foreign nations.

“No Nigerian citizen should be arrested or detained simply for expressing opinions about the actions of foreign governments or commenting on ongoing international conflicts,” he said.

The activist also warned that such actions could undermine Nigeria’s democratic image if citizens are punished for sharing opinions online.

He insisted that the DSS must immediately release the influencer and end what he described as an unlawful detention.

“Nigeria cannot claim to be a democracy while citizens are arrested for expressing views on international events,” Sowore added.