Isaac Bristol, who the Nigerian government accuses of managing the whistleblower social media account PIDOMNigeria, has been released from Kuje Correctional Centre after meeting his bail conditions.
Bristol, charged with multiple cybercrime-related offences, was remanded in prison by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja on September 3, 2024. Omoyele Sowore, a prominent human rights activist, announced his release via a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Isaac was charged with mobilising support for the #EndBadGovernance protests, making false money-laundering allegations against President Bola Tinubu, and unlawfully obtaining and sharing classified government documents, violating Nigeria’s Official Secrets Act of 1962.
He has consistently denied the allegations, pleading not guilty to the nine-count charge brought by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
The Inspector-General of Police had accused Bristol of using his platform to pressure the government into actions or inactions regarding governance issues. The charges also highlighted his alleged role in disseminating false information and retaining secret documents.
On September 27, 2024, the court granted Bristol bail, set at N5 million, with one surety in like sum. His legal team, led by Deji Adeyanju, successfully argued for his bail while contending that the charges against him were exaggerated and unfounded. After completing the necessary legal requirements, Bristol was released from prison on Friday, as confirmed by Sowore’s social media post.
The legal battle is far from over, as Bristol’s case will continue to unfold in the Federal High Court. His defence team remains optimistic, describing the case as a significant moment for freedom of speech and whistleblowing in Nigeria.
The Nigerian Bar Association and various civil society organizations have shown keen interest in the case, viewing it as a test of Nigeria’s commitment to upholding civil rights, including the right to peaceful protest and whistleblowing.
