Whistleblower ‘PIDOMNigeria’ Arrested Over Leaked Memo Allegedly Exposing SGF Akume’s N1 Billion Funding Request

In a recent and controversial development, Nigerian authorities have arrested whistleblower Isaac Bristol, who operates under the social media alias @PIDOMNigeria and 99%oppressed, following the unauthorized release of a classified government document. The document in question, allegedly leaked by Bristol, detailed a presidential approval for a N1 billion funding request tied to the inauguration of a new National Minimum Wage Committee—a revelation that has sparked significant public interest and concern.

The arrest stems from a formal petition submitted by Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), who urged the Inspector General of Police to investigate the unauthorized publication of this sensitive information. The leaked memo, with the file number 58957/S.I/T6/419 and signed by the SGF, has raised eyebrows due to its considerable budget allocation for the committee’s inauguration, fueling discussions about transparency and accountability within the government.

According to the petition, which was submitted on February 12, 2024, and bore the reference number W.I/S.39/C.6, the classified document had initially been approved by the President and subsequently sent to the Minister of Finance for the release of funds. However, the content of the memo found its way to social media, prompting an official inquiry into how such a sensitive document could be leaked. The SGF’s office emphasized the importance of this investigation, citing potential breaches of the Official Secrets Act of 1962.

Isaac Bristol’s arrest is not just about the leaked document. He has been charged with several offenses, including mobilizing support for the #EndBadGovernance protests, which took place from August 1 to 10, 2024. The charges were officially filed at the Federal High Court, Abuja, under the case marked FHC/ABJ/CR/456/2024, with Bristol facing allegations that could have significant legal consequences.

The police, represented by Simon Lough (SAN) and his legal team, have indicated that their investigation is ongoing, covering various cyber-related offenses allegedly committed by Bristol. His arrest has drawn mixed reactions from the public, with some viewing it as a necessary measure to protect national security, while others argue that it stifles the freedom of expression and the role of whistleblowers in holding the government accountable.

This case highlights the delicate balance between maintaining state security and upholding the public’s right to know, particularly in a democratic society. The outcome of the legal proceedings against Isaac Bristol could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, especially concerning the protection of classified information versus the need for government transparency.

As the legal battle unfolds, the public remains divided, with ongoing debates about the ethics of whistleblowing, the role of social media in modern governance, and the extent to which government actions should be scrutinized. The implications of this case may resonate far beyond the courtroom, influencing future policies on information security and the treatment of whistleblowers in Nigeria.