Amnesty Int’l Blasts FG Over TikToker’s Detention in Tinubu Death Claim

Amnesty International has called for the immediate and unconditional release of social media influencer Ghali Isma’il, popularly known as Sultan.

Security operatives arrested him in July over a TikTok video in which he falsely claimed President Bola Tinubu had died from poisoning.

The Department of State Services (DSS) apprehended him shortly after the video went viral.

Amnesty described his continued detention as unlawful.

They also condemned what they termed a “sham trial” based on “bogus charges” filed against him.

Authorities have since transferred him to Keffi Prison, where he remains in custody.

Moreover, Amnesty raised alarm over DSS operatives’ alleged invasion of Isma’il’s digital privacy.

According to the organisation, officers forcefully accessed his iCloud, phones, and social media accounts without involving his lawyers.

“This blatant violation of privacy also threatens the right to free speech and association,” Amnesty said.

The global human rights body criticised the Nigerian government for what it called a rising pattern of harassment and intimidation against online voices.

They warned that actions like these are silencing free expression.

“The DSS is fostering fear and censorship,” the group stated. “Citizens now hesitate to speak up online due to the threat of arrest or harassment.”

Additionally, Amnesty said this crackdown undermines Nigeria’s democratic values.

They accused authorities of using outdated laws to suppress dissent, especially on digital platforms.

Ghali Isma’il, who hails from Jogana in Kano State, faces two criminal charges.

These include spreading false information and attempting to incite disaffection against the government.

Both fall under Sections 416 and 418 of the Penal Code.

According to court records, Isma’il claimed President Tinubu was critically ill due to poisoning, citing unnamed official sources. Magistrate Ekpeyong Iyang denied his bail application and ordered him held until August 19.

Amnesty insists the charges should be dropped. They warned that continued prosecution would set a dangerous precedent for free speech in Nigeria.

“The government must release Ghali Isma’il now,” Amnesty urged. “Nigerians deserve the freedom to speak without fear.”

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