Governor’s critic transferred to prison after SSS arraignment

A media activist, Abdulkarim Allanana, popularly known as Oscar Keana, has been transferred from the Lafia Custodial Centre to the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Nasarawa State after his arraignment by the State Security Service (SSS).

Mr Allanana, chairman of the Indigenous People of Nasarawa State (IPNAS), was moved on Tuesday following a directive from the Nigerian Correctional Service, according to sources familiar with the development.

His transfer came days after the Federal High Court in Lafia ordered that he be remanded in custody following his arraignment by the SSS over alleged false information concerning Governor Abdullahi Sule.

Mr Allanana is facing a two-count charge bordering on alleged false information.

The court has adjourned the case until 26 November for hearing of his bail application.

The case followed a petition reportedly submitted by Mr Sule through the Abuja-based law firm, Legal Logic, and dated 20 September.

In the petition, the governor accused Mr Allanana of making what he described as “grave, malicious, reckless and unsubstantiated” allegations against him in social media broadcasts.

One of the allegations cited in the petition was that Mr Sule directed his supporters to back former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo during the 2023 presidential primary election, allegedly against the interests of the APC.

The petition also referred to allegations by the activist linking Mr Sule to the liquidation of the African Petroleum (AP) Group of Companies.

Mr Allanana was further accused of making claims concerning Mr Sule’s political support for President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 general elections.

According to the petition, Mr Sule considered the allegations false and damaging, arguing that they were capable of exposing him and his office to public hatred, ridicule, contempt and disrepute.

The petition also reportedly cited online videos in which Mr Allanana allegedly made offensive comments concerning members of the governor’s family, including remarks relating to a DNA test involving the governor’s daughter.

Mr Allanana reportedly retracted some of the statements after making them.

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The SSS, however, proceeded with the case and arraigned him before the Federal High Court.

The activist’s continued detention and subsequent transfer have drawn concerns from some individuals who say the case raises questions about freedom of expression and the protection of civic space.

A source familiar with the matter urged rights groups and other advocates of civil liberties to pay attention to the case.

“Whatever the allegations, his case deserves attention from those who consistently advocate for freedom of expression, due process and the protection of civic space,” the source said.

Mr Allanana remains in custody pending the hearing of his bail application on 26 November.