TikToker Seaking Rearrested in Court Over Police Corruption Allegations

Popular Nigerian TikToker Olumide Ogunsanwo, known as Seaking, has been rearrested during a court appearance on Thursday, allegedly over his recent social media posts exposing police corruption.

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore disclosed the development on his X handle, condemning the arrest as an attempt to silence critics of the Nigerian Police Force.

Sowore alleged that Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi orchestrated the arrest, using cybercrime allegations as a pretext to detain Seaking. He called for the influencer’s immediate and unconditional release, warning against the misuse of cybercrime laws to intimidate Nigerians.

Seaking had previously been arrested on December 20, 2024, and charged with treason and cyberstalking over a viral TikTok video in which he allegedly incited violence against police officers. He was granted bail but remained in detention until January 6 due to holiday-related administrative delays.

During his initial arraignment, police prosecutor Inspector Christopher John accused him of provoking a breach of the peace and inciting violence, citing sections of the Lagos State Criminal Law and the Cybercrime Act.

His latest arrest has sparked renewed concerns about press freedom and the alleged targeting of social media activists in Nigeria.