Adamawa Police Apprehend Man, 31, for Online Bullying of Chief

The Adamawa State Police Command has taken into custody a 31-year-old individual, Buriba Israel, resident in Jambutu, Yola South Local Government Area. He faces allegations of cyberbullying and criminal intimidation directed at a First-Class Chief, Hamman Bachama, Daniel Samaila.

In a public statement released on Friday, the command's spokesperson, Suleiman Nguroje, strongly condemned the misuse of social media platforms. He specifically highlighted their deployment for cyberbullying, criminal intimidation, and the propagation of unverified and offensive accusations against respected societal figures and traditional institutions.

Initial findings from the police investigation indicate that the suspect is alleged to have created and disseminated social media content containing various accusations against the traditional ruler. These publications, according to the statement, were perceived as offensive, disparaging, and capable of damaging the chief's reputation and standing.

The arrest of Buriba Israel followed a formal complaint and a subsequent police inquiry into his alleged online activities. Authorities have confiscated relevant electronic devices and other materials pertinent to the alleged offenses, which are currently undergoing forensic examination as the investigation progresses.

The command emphasized that while citizens are entitled to freedom of expression, this right must be exercised responsibly and strictly within legal boundaries. The statement made it clear that “The use of social media to harass, threaten, intimidate, defame, or deliberately circulate harmful content against individuals or institutions will not be tolerated.”

Commissioner of Police for Adamawa State Command, Kabir Hassan, has issued a directive for a comprehensive investigation into the matter. He further instructed that if found guilty, the suspect must face the full consequences stipulated by law.

The command reiterated its commitment to upholding the dignity of traditional institutions, maintaining public peace, and ensuring that the digital realm is not exploited for criminal intimidation, cyberbullying, or any other unlawful conduct.