Shinkafi petitions IGP to probe Dan Bello over Yari videos

A Nigerian advocacy group, Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development, has formally requested an investigation into social media influencer Bello Galadanchi, known as Dan Bello. The group petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, urging scrutiny over videos that allege former Zamfara State governor and Senator Abdul’Aziz Abubakar Yari diverted N1.7 trillion from the Federation Account.

According to the petition, the videos unfairly tarnished the reputations of Senator Yari, Abdullahi Abdulkarim Tsafe, and Ajap Financial Services Limited. The group seeks to determine if any criminal offenses were committed by the influencer, who is reportedly based in China, and to prosecute him if evidence supports the claims. The petition details a sustained online campaign accusing Dan Bello of waging a smear campaign against the former governor.

“

While freedom of expression and of the media is a fundamental right, it must, however, be expressed responsibly.

The advocacy group claims Dan Bello falsely portrayed Ajap Financial Services Limited and Tsafe as conduits for the alleged diversion of public funds. The petition emphasizes that while freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it must be exercised responsibly. It further alleges that the online campaign has caused significant emotional distress, social stigma, and a decline in public confidence, characterizing it as politically motivated and a form of "unrestrained cyberbullying."

Furthermore, the petitioners argue that Ajap Financial Services Limited, a registered company providing financial solutions, has suffered substantial reputational damage. They contend that Dan Bello's alleged publications violate Nigeria's Cybercrimes Act of 2015 and relevant criminal codes concerning defamation. The group asserts that Dan Bello and his alleged sponsors failed to substantiate their claims against Senator Yari and Tsafe.

“

Unrestrained cyberbullying is not just an attack on individuals, it is an assault on the values of justice, decency, integrity, accountability and equity that our democracy is built upon.