TheCable

Mai Mala Buni, governor of Yobe, says he was not aware that a 16-year-old was arrested by the police for allegedly insulting him on social media.

The minor was reportedly arrested on December 11 — it is, however, not clear what the post was about.

Garba Isa, father of the boy, had pleaded and called on Buni and the authorities to release his son from detention.

The police were reportedly considering preferring charges against the boy.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Mamman Mohammed, media aide to the governor, said on finding out, he ordered the immediate release of the teenager.

“This is the price of leadership and we are fully conscious of it. Therefore, l couldn’t have ordered nor condoned the detention of anyone,” the statement reads.

“Until someone drew my attention to it, l wasn’t aware of his arrest and detention, l have now directed his immediate release from detention.

“It is, however, important to note that although the Buni administration runs an open government, contributions and criticisms should be constructive and meaningful.

“Social media users are also reminded to be responsive and responsible to respect the rights of everyone, political party, religious and socio-cultural differences most especially as the political campaigns are ongoing.”

The development comes days after a similar incident involving Aminu Muhammad, a student of the Federal University Dutse.

Muhammad was arrested for criticising Aisha Buhari, wife of the president, in a tweet.

He was arraigned in court, remanded in prison, but the president’s wife later withdrew the case against him.