Police Name David Hundeyin as an Accomplice of PIDOM

The Nigerian Police Force has identified investigative journalist David Hundeyin as an accomplice to Bristol Isaac Tamunobifiri, known on social media as PIDOM, in a case involving the leakage of classified documents and other cyber-related offenses. Here’s a summary based on the information available up to September 4, 2024:

• Arrest of PIDOM: Bristol Isaac Tamunobifiri, operating under the handle @pidomnigeria, was arrested by the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre on August 5, 2024, in Rivers State. He faces allegations including the unlawful possession of classified documents, cyber offenses, and other charges that could undermine government operations.
• Allegations Against Hundeyin: David Hundeyin has been named alongside PIDOM for allegedly conspiring to leak sensitive government information. The police claim this group, including Hundeyin, engaged in activities that could fund terrorism, launder money, and finance protests against the government.
• Police Investigation: The investigation was initiated following a complaint from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, pointing to the leakage of a restricted document on a sensitive national security matter. This led to the identification of Hundeyin and others as suspects.
• Public and Media Reaction: There has been considerable discussion and concern on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) regarding the arrest and the implications for freedom of the press and whistleblowing in Nigeria. Some posts express fear for PIDOM’s safety, while others discuss the broader implications of such arrests on journalism and transparency.
• Hundeyin’s Response: David Hundeyin has responded to these allegations with skepticism, suggesting through a post on X that when exposing crime is treated as committing a crime, it indicates a deeper issue with governance and rule of law.

This situation reflects ongoing tensions between investigative journalism, national security, and the legal boundaries of information disclosure in Nigeria. The case against Hundeyin and PIDOM raises questions about freedom of information, the role of whistleblowers, and how far authorities can go in the name of national security.