The Delta State Police Command has filed a lawsuit against activist and journalist Fejiro Oliver, accusing him of cyberstalking Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Senator Ede Dafinone via Facebook posts.
Oliver, who was arrested in Abuja in September 2025 and later transferred to Delta State, is facing charges under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act of 2015.
According to court documents filed at the High Court in Asaba, the police allege that between July and August 2025, Oliver used his Facebook account to publish statements that attacked Governor Oborevwori’s character and reputation. The charge sheet cites specific posts alleging the governor secretly travelled to Brazil, awarded contracts to associates for election rigging, spent money on inspections in China, and called him a “sleeping governor.”
Similarly, between May and July 2025, Oliver is accused of publishing derogatory statements against Senator Ede Dafinone, including names such as “grossly incompetent senator,” “sleeping senator,” and “scammer in NASS,” and accusing him of hiding school buses and transformers meant for his constituents.
The police maintain these publications were intended to damage reputations, an offence they say is punishable under Section 24 (2)(c) and (c)(ii) of the Cybercrime Act.
Reactions: Support, Criticism, and Calls for Due Process
Civil Society, Lawyers, and NACAT Demand Release
The Network Against Corruption and Anti-Drug Trafficking (NACAT) has strongly condemned Oliver’s arrest and detention, describing it as a “politically motivated persecution.”
In a press statement, NACAT accused the Delta State Governor and the state Police of abuse of power, and demanded his immediate and unconditional release. They warned that the move sets a dangerous precedent for freedom of speech and journalism.
Lawyers and activist groups have issued ultimatums to the Delta Police, demanding that Oliver either be freed, granted bail, or promptly arraigned in court. They argued that continuing to hold him without formal charges or court appearance violates constitutional rights.
Press Freedom Advocates Raise Alarm
Media and human rights organizations have expressed strong concern over the case, viewing it as an attack on press freedom. Many believe Oliver’s arrest is a direct response to his past reporting critical of the state government.
One activist stated that the case sends a chilling message: that journalists who expose wrongdoing risk prosecution under broad cybercrime laws.
Public Protest and Social Media Outcry
Youth groups in Delta State staged protests at the Delta State Government House, demanding Oliver’s release or formal charge.
On social media, the case is trending. Supporters of Oliver accuse the state government of using police power to silence dissent. Posts with hashtags like #FreeFejiroOliver and #PressFreedom have gained traction online.
Governor’s Camp & Police: Silence or Noncommittal Statements
As of now, Governor Oborevwori and Senator Dafinone have not issued public statements directly addressing the case.
When contacted, the Delta Police spokesperson, Bright Edafe, said he had no details, citing absence from duty.
Some sources claim that Oliver was flown to Asaba in a private jet linked to the governor, and that he has been denied proper access to his legal counsel since arrival.
What It Means
At the heart of this case lies a collision between accountability through public criticism and government’s impulse to protect reputation and authority.
Supporters of Oliver argue that criticism — even harsh — is a vital part of a functioning democracy. They warn that using the Cybercrime Act to prosecute critical voices could erode free speech in Nigeria.
On the other hand, the police contend that Oliver’s posts crossed legal boundaries and targeted government officials in a way that justifies legal action.
The coming days — including Oliver’s expected arraignment — will be key. The courts, civil society, and public opinion will all play roles in shaping how this case is resolved and how future conflicts between activism and state power are handled.
