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Abiodun Thomas goes into hiding over alleged police threat
Nigerian activist Abiodun Thomas, popularly known as Horlarmidey Africano, has gone into hiding over alleged police threats after accusing the Force Police Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, of targeting her for harassment.
As reported by the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), Abiodun claims that Adejobi sought revenge for her outspoken criticism of the Nigeria Police by maliciously spreading false rumors of her involvement in criminal activity and instructing officers to apprehend her.”.
Abiodun reaffirmed her strong opposition to police brutality, stating that she consistently challenges Muyiwa’s posts and comments, especially those containing misinformation and propaganda about protests and protesters. This, she believes, may have motivated him to target her.”
The human rights activist shared her experience, revealing that Adejobi allegedly spread false claims on social media, accusing her of bullying Nigerians, including himself.
According to the activist, Adejobi’s allegations are linked to her opposition to police brutality, particularly following her participation in the #EndSARS memorial protests on October 20, 2024, where she claims to have been assaulted by police.”
“I’m innocent and have done nothing wrong. My only ‘crime’ is speaking truth to power and advocating against police brutality.
“I was brutally assaulted during the #EndSARS memorial protest, had my money stolen while in police custody, and my phone was destroyed, Abiodun stated.”
Besides, she exposed Adejobi’s baseless accusations, stating he misled others by claiming she was facing consequences for bullying him and several Nigerians online.
Abiodun alleged that Adejobi took extreme measures to silence her, deploying operatives from the Intelligence Response Team, a specialized tactical unit within the Nigeria Police Force, to apprehend her.
“I’ve received multiple requests from police officers to meet at various locations, but I’m extremely cautious, fearing it might be a trap or abduction attempt orchestrated by Adejobi,” she shared in an interview with SaharaReporters while in hiding.
According to a report by PUNCH, the activist reported additional incidents of online harassment, including alleged threats from individuals, notably Police Officer Isijola Victor.
Abiodun alleged that Victor made some really disturbing comments, saying “they haven’t beaten you up properly, and that’s why you’re still talking,” and then went on to call her derogatory names.
According to the activist, upon her threat to publicly disclose his remarks, Victor purportedly removed the comments and restricted access to his profile.
Recalling the incident, she stated “on October 27th, Lagos coordinator of the Take It Back Movement, Scotty Aluta, informed me that SP Benjamin Hundeyin, Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, had requested my contact information.
“Scotty sought my approval before sharing it, and I agreed, trusting his judgment as my coordinator and having faith in the movement, she said.”
However, according to SaharaReporters, all attempts to contact ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi via mobile phone to solicit his comments and reaction were unsuccessful as of the time this report was filed.”
Know about Abiodun Thomas
Abiodun Thomas is a Nigerian activist and advocate for social justice, particularly in the areas of women’s rights, gender equality, police accountability, and human rights.
Early Life and Education of Abiodun Thomas
She was born in Nigeria and her degree in the University of Lagos
Career and Activism of Abiodun Thomas
Abiodun works with various organizations promoting women’s empowerment and social justices.
She advocates for police reform and accountability in Nigeria and participates in protests and campaigns against gender-based violence and human rights abuses.
The human rights activist engages in public speaking, writing, and community outreach.
Notable Incidents and Controversies
Abiodun Thomas reportedly faced online harassment and threats from Police Officer Isijola Victor and received multiple requests from police officers to meet, sparking concerns about entrapment or abduction.
Legacy and Impact
The Nigerian born contributes to raising awareness about social justice issues in Nigeria, inspires others to advocate for human rights and gender equality, and helps build coalitions and partnerships among activist groups.
Social Media and Public Presence
She is active on X formerly Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Interviews and articles featuring Abiodun Thomas can be found in Nigerian news outlets and online platforms.
Challenges and Future Directions
Abiodun continues to face challenges as a woman activist in Nigeria, advocates for policy changes and increased support for marginalized communities, and seeks to expand her reach and impact through collaborative efforts.
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