Isaac Bristol Tamunobifiri, widely known by his social media handle PIDOM Nigeria, has been granted bail, according to reports by The Nation. The Nigeria Police Force arrested PIDOM on August 5 in Rivers State for allegedly undermining government operations and violating cybercrime laws.
Operating anonymously on X.com under the alias PIDOM Nigeria, the whistleblower is known for exposing government misconduct and tweeting on his platform “99% Oppressed.” He was arraigned on a nine-count charge, including money laundering, cybercrime, and unlawfully obtaining and disseminating classified government documents.
Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered Tamunobifiri’s remand in Kuje correctional facility until his recent bail release on September 27. The charges were brought against him by the Inspector-General of Police.
The case has drawn attention from public figures, including Omoyele Sowore, a 2023 presidential candidate and activist, who expressed solidarity with PIDOM and other activists facing repression under the current administration. Sowore’s presence in court highlighted ongoing protests against alleged government mismanagement and crackdowns on whistleblowers and activists.
Police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi accused PIDOM of illegally accessing restricted data and engaging in a criminal conspiracy, raising funds to support cyberterrorism. Despite these allegations, PIDOM’s supporters continue to campaign for his freedom, using the hashtag #FreePIDOMNigeriaNow.
Hyelsinta Hassan