The Adamawa State Police Command has arrested a 31-year-old man, Buriba Israel, for allegedly using social media to intimidate and disparage first-class traditional rulers in the Numan Federation.
Israel was reportedly arrested following allegations that he used a Facebook account bearing his name to publish and circulate what the police described as offensive and unverified claims against the traditional rulers.
The command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Nguroje, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, saying preliminary findings showed that the suspect had made several social media publications containing allegations against the monarchs.
Nguroje said the contents of the posts were considered offensive and capable of undermining the reputation, dignity and standing of the traditional rulers.
He explained that the suspect’s arrest followed a formal complaint lodged with the police, after which detectives commenced an investigation into his alleged online activities.
According to the PPRO, police operatives recovered electronic devices and other materials believed to be relevant to the case.
The items have been subjected to forensic examination as investigators work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the allegations.
The police spokesman said the command recognised the right of citizens to express their views, but warned that such freedom must be exercised responsibly and within the limits of the law.
He said the police would not tolerate the use of social media platforms to harass, threaten, intimidate or defame individuals or institutions, particularly where harmful information was deliberately circulated.
The Numan Federation covers Demsa, Guyuk, Lamurde, Numan and Shelleng Local Government Areas in southern Adamawa State.
The area is traditionally administered by five paramount rulers, including three first-class chiefs: the Hama Bachama, who has authority over Lamurde and Numan; the Hama Batta of central Demsa; and the Amna Shelleng of Shelleng Local Government Area.
The police said investigation into the case was ongoing, with further action to be taken based on the outcome of the forensic examination and other findings.