Authorities Confirm Journalist PIDOMNIGERIA’s Arrest After Disappearance

The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has officially confirmed the arrest of Bristol Isaac Tamunobiefiri, a prominent investigative journalist known as PIDOMNIGERIA, who had been reported missing online. Renowned for his fearless exposés of corruption within government and federal agencies, PIDOMNIGERIA’s sudden disappearance sparked widespread concern, particularly as it occurred just days before the EndBadGovernance protest, which he had been actively promoting on his X account (formerly Twitter).

On Saturday, police spokesperson ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi revealed that PIDOMNIGERIA was arrested on August 5, 2024, from a hotel room in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Adejobi stated that the arrest was linked to “serious crimes” allegedly committed by the journalist, which are said to have undermined the integrity of government operations.

“Bristol Isaac Tamunobiefiri, widely recognized as PIDOMNIGERIA, was apprehended for allegedly engaging in activities that compromised the government’s operational integrity,” Adejobi explained. “The charges against him include illegal possession of confidential documents and various cybercrimes.”

The police have assured the public that due diligence will be observed, with a thorough investigation into the case. The arrest has raised concerns among advocates for press freedom and transparency, as PIDOMNIGERIA has been a vocal critic of government practices through his investigative work. The developments surrounding his arrest are expected to draw significant attention as the case unfolds.