The Nigeria Police Force, through its National Cyber Crime Centre (NCCC), has apprehended Destiny Ekhorutomuen on charges of spreading false and inflammatory content intended to discredit the police in the public eye.
Details of the Arrest
- Location and Date: Ekhorutomuen was arrested in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State on December 8, 2024.
- Allegations: He is accused of creating multiple social media accounts to disseminate misleading information, aiming to incite distrust and provoke public discontent against the Nigeria Police Force.
- Police Statement: Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated that Ekhorutomuen’s actions were part of a broader strategy to widen the trust gap between the police and the Nigerian public, thus threatening national peace and security.
Legal Response
- Investigations: The Police Force has emphasized its zero-tolerance policy towards acts that undermine national stability or the reputation of government institutions, particularly noting Ekhorutomuen’s alleged involvement with fake news and incitement.
- Warnings: The public has been warned against the misuse of social media for spreading disinformation, with the Police highlighting that such actions are criminal and punishable by law.
Public and Media Reactions
Posts on social platforms and reports from various news outlets indicate a mix of reactions, with some commending the police action to maintain integrity and others questioning the implications for freedom of expression.
This arrest underscores the Nigeria Police Force’s ongoing battle against cybercrime and misinformation, particularly through the operations of the NCCC, which is dedicated to curbing cyber threats and ensuring the digital space remains a safe environment for all Nigerians.
