In a move that has sent shockwaves through both social media and the Nigerian legal community, popular TikTok personality Timothy Gabriel, widely known as ‘Tumma,’ has filed a lawsuit against the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and its leadership for what he describes as an unlawful arrest and prolonged detention. Tumma is demanding a staggering N100 million in damages for the violation of his fundamental human rights.
The case, which was filed on February 21, 2025, in the Federal High Court in Abuja, has drawn the attention of legal experts and civil rights advocates alike. Represented by renowned human rights lawyer S. M. Oyeghe, the lawsuit names several prominent entities and individuals as respondents, including the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the NPF, and the Director of the National Cybercrime Center, CP Uche Ifeanyi Henry.
Tumma’s legal team has outlined in the lawsuit that his rights, guaranteed under Section 34(1)(a) of the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, were grossly violated when he was arrested and detained without just cause.
The Arrest: A Controversial Claim and Video Statement
The events leading to Tumma’s arrest began on the evening of Thursday, February 6, 2025. Tumma was reportedly taken into custody at approximately 6:30 PM by officers from the Berger Quarri Police Station in Mpape, Abuja. He was then transferred to the Nigeria Police Force’s Cybercrime Center, where he was held without access to bail for days.
His arrest stems from a viral video posted on social media, where he made controversial comments about the police and their power to check citizens’ mobile phones. In the video, Tumma addressed the public with the following provocative statement:
“If any officer says he wants to check your phone, beat him. Even if the Commissioner of Police or President Tinubu says he wants to check your phone, beat him very well.”
Tumma’s comments, which were intended as a critique of police overreach, drew both support and backlash. In the video, he also expressed frustration toward various government figures, including President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and several state governors. Tumma’s words ignited a heated debate online, with many praising his stance on personal privacy, while others viewed it as an incitement to violence.
Unlawful Detention: A Violation of Rights?
According to Tumma’s legal representatives, despite the allegations against him—cyberbullying and cyberstalking—none of the charges against him justify the extreme measure of keeping him in detention without bail. Tumma’s lawyer, S. M. Oyeghe, revealed that the police acted on their own accord in arresting Tumma, despite there being no formal petition or charge filed by any individual or organization against the TikToker.
As Oyeghe explained, “The police have failed to provide a legitimate reason for Tumma’s continued detention, which violates his constitutional rights. The arrest was not only unlawful but also a blatant disregard for his dignity as a citizen of this country.”
Legal experts are weighing in on the case, arguing that it could set an important precedent for the treatment of citizens by law enforcement, particularly when it comes to issues of free speech. Oyeghe is seeking a declaration from the court that Tumma’s detention violates his right to liberty and dignity as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
The Struggle for Bail: A Denied Request
Despite the fact that Tumma’s alleged offenses are considered bailable under Nigerian law, the police have refused to grant him administrative bail, leaving his supporters bewildered. Tumma’s detention stretched for more than a week, with no sign of an impending trial or release, prompting his legal team to take action.
“We requested that Tumma be granted bail, as is his right under the law. However, the authorities have chosen to ignore this request, subjecting him to continued unlawful detention,” Oyeghe stated in an interview. He further emphasized that Tumma’s case is not just about one individual but rather about standing up for the rights of Nigerians who might find themselves in similar situations.
Tumma’s fans and human rights organizations are rallying behind him, demanding that he be released immediately. Many have taken to social media platforms to voice their support, arguing that the TikToker’s arrest is a clear violation of free speech and privacy rights.
The Broader Context: A Nation in Turmoil Over Free Speech
This case comes amid growing concerns over the erosion of fundamental rights in Nigeria, particularly regarding free speech and the treatment of social media influencers. The arrest of Tumma has sparked discussions on the increasing use of state power to stifle dissent and silence critical voices.
In recent months, several individuals have faced legal action for making statements online that were deemed offensive by government officials. While Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees the right to free speech, there are mounting concerns about the growing influence of law enforcement agencies in policing the digital space.
Tumma’s case is also a reflection of the tensions between government officials and citizens using social media to voice their frustrations. His video, which many saw as a challenge to authority, has raised questions about the limits of free expression in Nigeria.
“The government must understand that citizens have the right to question authority, especially when they feel their rights are being infringed upon. Tumma’s arrest and subsequent treatment are a grave injustice,” remarked one human rights advocate.
A Call for Justice and Accountability
Tumma’s lawsuit, which seeks N100 million in damages for the alleged abuse he endured during his detention, is also calling for a public apology from the Nigerian Police Force. His legal team insists that his case is not just about personal compensation but about holding the authorities accountable for their actions.
While the case is yet to be assigned to a judge, many are closely watching how the courts will handle the matter. If Tumma wins, it could become a landmark case in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle for freedom of expression and protection from police abuse.
As the case unfolds, it serves as a reminder that no one, no matter their status or platform, is above the law, and the government’s responsibility is to uphold the rights and dignity of all citizens, especially in the face of growing digital activism.
For now, Tumma remains behind bars, awaiting the court’s ruling on his application for bail and his fight for justice. As his legal battle continues, it is clear that his story is more than just about one TikTok video; it is about the fundamental rights of every Nigerian to speak, express, and challenge authority without fear of retribution.
