By Afolabi Samuel Odunayo
In the midst of a simmering tension ahead of August 1, the Plateau State Police Command has apprehended a man for using TikTok to allegedly incite violence while mobilizing Nigerians for the planned nationwide protest.
The suspect, known on TikTok as Dam-Mallam68, was arrested by the Police following accusation that he was using the social media platform to incite public disorder.
Speaking to reporters on shortly after his arrest, Alabo Alfred, spokesperson for the Plateau State Police Command, who confirmed the arrest explained that the suspect was simulating violence ahead of the planned nationwide protests.
He stated: “Following the release of a TikTok video that occupied the social media space, stimulating violence in connection with the planned nationwide protest, the Plateau State Police Command has trailed and arrested the author of the inciting video.”
Explaining how it happened, Alfred detailed that on July 27, 2024, the police became aware of the video from the TikTok account identified as ‘Dam-Mallam68’.
“The suspect in the video was seen assertively inciting the public to attack security operatives and burn down critical state and private infrastructure in Plateau State as part of the activities for the protest,” Alfred explained.
According to him, the Plateau State Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Adesina then activated strategic resources to locate and apprehend the TikTok poster, Dam-Mallam68.
Alfred added: He “Consequently, on 28/07/2024 around 11:30 AM, one Suleiman Yakubu (male, aged 34 years) of Jos North, Plateau State who appeared in the viral video was picked at Ahmadu Bello Way, Jos through an impeccable informant.”
The police spokesman revealed that while in custody, Yakubu confessed that he was the individual in the video in question.
Adesina emphasized that the police will firmly oppose any attempts by mischief-makers to create chaos in the state.
He called for peace and urged the people and residents of Plateau State to remain law-abiding and avoid making inciting statements that could threaten the state’s security.
