Nigerian Police Invite Bauchi Social Media Commentator Over Post On Govt Appointee, ₦13billion Contract Claim
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Date of OccurrenceSeptember 26, 2026
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State/CountryGombe, Nigeria
Description
The Nigeria Police Force, Federal Criminal Investigation Department, Gombe State, has invited a social media commentator, Daure David, over a complaint reportedly lodged by a Federal Government appointee, Prof. Samson Duna, concerning a social media post shared by the commentator.
David, who is the Chairman of Kaura Independent Communication, disclosed this in an urgent appeal to media professionals, civil society organizations and human rights groups, calling for transparency and due process in the handling of the matter.
According to him, the post that prompted the police invitation was originally published by Secret Reporters, an online investigative journalism platform.
David said he did not author the publication but shared it on his social media platform, adding a caption in which he raised questions about the quality and standard of road construction reportedly undertaken by an organization associated with Duna.
The commentator said the post contained allegations concerning an alleged N13bn contract for the painting of an estate.
He, however, stressed that he was not presenting the allegations as established facts.
“I want to make it clear that I am not presenting the allegations contained in the original publication as established facts. They are claims that should be independently investigated, verified or disproved by competent authorities and journalists,” he said.
David said his caption also questioned the quality of road construction reportedly carried out by the organisation associated with Duna, particularly a road located in Anguwan Ngas, Yelwan Tudu, Bauchi.
He expressed concern over what he described as a broader challenge facing social media commentators who raise questions about public officials, government spending and political activities.
“There are also claims circulating concerning alleged political donations and political activities involving Prof. Duna in Bauchi and Gombe States. These claims likewise require independent verification, and I believe responsible journalism should establish the facts rather than rely on assumptions or political affiliations,” he said.
The commentator appealed to media organisations, civil society groups and human rights advocates to monitor the development and ensure that his fundamental rights were respected.
His appeal comes against the backdrop of his previous legal challenges over his activities as a social media commentator.
David said he was currently involved in an ongoing case before the Federal High Court in Abuja involving Senator Shehu Umar Buba and others.
He said the latest police invitation had therefore heightened his concerns about the treatment of citizens who participate in public discourse through social media.
“My concern is that citizens should be able to participate in public discourse, question government policies and share matters of public interest without being subjected to intimidation or unnecessary pressure,” he stated.
He added, however, that freedom of expression should be exercised responsibly and within the law.
“At the same time, I recognise that public commentary must be responsible, evidence-based and respectful of the law,” he said.
David said he was not asking anyone to interfere with a lawful police investigation, but wanted the process to be transparent and fair.
“I am not asking anyone to interfere with any lawful investigation. My request is simply for transparency, fairness and accountability, and for any allegations against me to be addressed through due process rather than intimidation,” he said.
He further stated that he was willing to cooperate with the police and provide clarification regarding the material he shared.
“I am prepared to cooperate with lawful investigations and provide clarification concerning the material I shared,” he said.
David consequently appealed to media professionals, civil society organisations and human rights groups to pay attention to the matter, monitor the proceedings and provide legal or institutional support where necessary.
He said screenshots of the publication he shared and the communication he received from the police were available for examination.
He urged stakeholders to ensure that the matter was handled in accordance with due process, freedom of expression and fundamental human rights.
Details
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State/CountryGombe
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PerpetratorThe Nigeria Police Force, Federal Criminal Investigation Department, Gombe State
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Source
Location
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Gombe, Nigeria
