- The DSS has arrested Borno youth leader Samaila Ibrahim Kaigama after his controversial appearance on Channels Television, where he made allegations relating to payments to Boko Haram.
- The Borno State Government has denied those claims, while the DSS has yet to issue a detailed public explanation for the arrest.
The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested Borno youth leader Samaila Ibrahim Kaigama following a controversial interview on Channels Television in which he alleged that billions of naira were paid to Boko Haram to secure the release of abducted victims. Authorities have not publicly confirmed that the arrest was specifically over his claims about President Bola Tinubu, but reports indicate investigators are questioning him over allegations he made during the broadcast.
During the interview, Kaigama alleged that ₦5 billion was paid to Boko Haram to facilitate the release of abducted women and children from Ngoshe in Borno State. He also claimed that part of the money was handled by Senator Ali Ndume. The Borno State Government has denied that any ransom was paid, insisting the victims were rescued through an intelligence-led operation involving the military and the DSS.
Shortly after the interview aired, DSS operatives reportedly arrested Kaigama for questioning. As of now, the DSS has not released a detailed official statement outlining the specific offences for which he is being investigated.
The arrest has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many users expressing concern over freedom of expression, while others argued that serious allegations should be backed by credible evidence.
Reacting, @Mozzay_Trey wrote, “Picking everybody up 🤦♂️.”
@DamilareOdulate commented, “Channels TV Dan put am for trouble.”
@MuokaFrancis4 wrote, “And they arrested him. Hmmm.”
@ObumMic said, “You can’t silent everyone.”
@bobasefe1 commented, “Freedom of speech I can assure you but freedom has after speech I can’t assure you now waiting DSS do for the guy be that.”
@Tojuvike wrote, “Freedom of speech …heavily abused by this Apc govt.”
@Sojebluv reacted, “Omo.”
@artist_VinKings commented, “Just look at…”
@DArchitect11 wrote, “He’s definitely part of them. He even said ‘WE are on midterm break’ lol.”
