Federal Police Attempt to Re-Arrest TikToker During Lagos Court Appearance
The Nigeria Police Force, through its Force Intelligence Department (FID) in Abuja, has moved to re-arrest social media personality Olumide Ogunsanwo (popularly known as Seaking) during his court appearance at a Lagos Magistrate Court on Tuesday. The action relates to videos allegedly critical of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye.
In a statement issued by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, the police operation was strongly condemned. “The Police Team is advised to refrain from rearresting Olumide Ogunsanwo and to vacate the premises of the courthouse immediately,” Sowore stated.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has consequently been alerted to the jurisdictional concerns raised by federal officers intervening in a state court proceeding. Legal experts emphasized that the case highlights growing tensions between freedom of expression and law enforcement’s application of cybercrime laws.
“In compliance with constitutional protections of free speech and due process, such rearrest attempts must follow proper legal channels,” a senior NBA member added. The association assured the public it would monitor the case to ensure judicial processes are respected.
The attempted re-arrest is expected to impact ongoing legal proceedings, as Seaking was already facing separate charges related to social media posts about political figures. However, civil society organizations have pledged to provide legal support to ensure his rights are protected throughout the judicial process.
The confrontation at the Lagos court is part of broader national debates about the boundaries of online expression and the independence of state judicial proceedings. The incident could set important precedents for how similar cases are handled across Nigeria’s justice system.
As the situation develops, stakeholders in the legal community and digital rights organizations will be closely observing the handling of this case. The successful resolution of this jurisdictional dispute could influence future interactions between federal law enforcement and state judicial authorities.
The events at the Lagos court highlight the importance of clear legal frameworks governing online content and police powers. While the immediate focus is on this specific case, the long-term implications for freedom of expression and law enforcement protocols are expected to shape Nigeria’s digital governance landscape for years to come.
