Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni has ordered the release of 16-year-old Umar Garba, who allegedly ‘insulted’ him on social media.
The move comes ten days after Umar was apprehended by state police.
Mamman Mohammed, Governor Buni’s Director General of Press and Media Affairs, said in a press statement on Tuesday that his principal was unaware of the arrest and detention, and that it was completely unnecessary to arrest anyone for insulting or criticising him.
“This is the price of leadership and we are fully conscious of it, therefore, l couldn’t have ordered nor condoned the detention of anyone.
“Until someone drew my attention to it, l wasn’t aware of his arrest and detention, l have now directed his immediate release from detention,” Governor Buni was quoted as saying.
The statement further explains, although the Buni administration runs an open government, contributions and criticisms should be constructive and meaningful.
He reminded social media users to be responsive and responsible to respect the rights of everyone, political party, religious and socio-cultural differences most especially as the political campaigns are ongoing.