Police give reasons for arrest of anonymous whistleblower
The Nigeria Police Force said that Bristol Tamunobiefiri, known as PIDOM was arrested by officials from the National Cybercrime Center for allegedly compromising the integrity of government operations.
Tamunobiefiri, who operates anonymously as a whistleblower on X under the handle 99% Oppressed and tweets as #PIDOMNIGERIA, was apprehended on August 5 in his hotel room in Rivers State.
On Thursday, August 22, journalist David Hundeyin revealed that PIDOMNigeria had been missing since August 5, following a report from one of PIDOM’s associates.
Hundeyin’s disclosure sparked a significant social media outcry, with campaigns and hashtags like #PIDOM, #FreePidom, and #WhereisPidom demanding his whereabouts.
A statement released on Saturday, August 24, Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi stated that PIDOMNigeria faces additional charges, including unlawful possession, leaking classified documents, and cyber-related offenses.
The statement reads: “In a well-coordinated effort, officials from the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre apprehended Bristol Isaac Tamunobiefiri, also known as PIDOM, on allegations of committing serious offences that undermine the integrity of government operations. “The arrest took place on August 5, 2024, in his hotel room in Rivers State.
“There are multiple accusations against the suspect, including illegal possession, leaking classified documents, cyber-related crimes, and more.”
Adejobi assured the public that a comprehensive investigation would be conducted into the charges against PIDOM.
