Terhemba Gyenger, a detained social media influencer, has taken legal action by filing a N200 million fundamental rights suit against Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue state, the State Government, the state

Commissioner of Police, and the Attorney General of the State. The suit is in response to Gyenger’s alleged illegal arrest and detention, which has sparked widespread public discourse.

Gyenger’s arrest occurred on August 25, 2023, at his residence in the Gyado Villa area of Makurdi town. The detention followed his Facebook post on August 18, 2023, where he claimed that the Governor of Benue State had diverted N2 billion out of the N5 billion petrol subsidy removal palliative sent by the Federal Government for the state’s populace.

The lawsuit, filed by Gyenger’s counsel Clement Mue, seeks a declaration that the arrest, harassment, humiliation, and ongoing detention by the Nigerian police over a civil matter constitutes a violation of his constitutional rights. It cites sections 34, 35, and 36, as well as 39, 41, and 46 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, and Articles 5, 6, and 12 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights.

Gyenger is requesting an order to compel the Governor of Benue State, the Benue State Government, the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, and the Attorney General of Benue State to pay him N200 million as compensation and damages for his unlawful arrest and continued detention.

Furthermore, he seeks an order for his immediate release on liberal terms from the Nigerian Police custody. Additionally, Gyenger wants the respondents to issue an unreserved apology in two national dailies, addressing the negative portrayal he has suffered before the public.

The lawsuit also includes a plea for a perpetual injunction against the respondents and their representatives from threatening his freedom, including arrest, detention, and harassment.

Gyenger’s arrest and detention have sparked debates across social media platforms and public circles. The case highlights the intersection between freedom of speech, individual rights, and the responsibilities of those in positions of power

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