Police Deny Arresting Social Media Influencer In Akwa Ibom
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has refuted widespread allegations that it detained a popular social media influencer and mother of three, Blossom Williams. The command made the clarification in response to public outrage and viral posts alleging that Williams, who is reportedly pregnant, was arrested on her way to a hospital appointment.
According to the claims, the arrest was allegedly ordered by Daniel Eyakenyi, the son of the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State. Several social media posts have circulated suggesting that Williams’ arrest was politically motivated due to her outspoken criticism of the government and her consistent advocacy for the rights of marginalized communities in the Oro Nation.
Family members of the detained influencer told journalists that she was intercepted and forcefully taken into custody by police operatives while on her way for a scheduled medical check-up. They described the incident as a gross abuse of power and called for her immediate release. Her supporters argue that Williams’ continuous demands for transparency and accountability from the government may have made her a target of political persecution.
A source close to her family, who spoke anonymously, said, “Blossom is a vocal advocate for good governance and has always used her platform to speak up for the underprivileged. This arrest is not just unjust but also aimed at silencing her.”
The alleged detention has sparked a wave of reactions from civil society groups, women’s rights activists, and social media users. Many have taken to various platforms to demand her release and called for a thorough investigation into the matter. Hashtags like #FreeBlossom and #JusticeForBlossom have been trending on Twitter (now X), as concerned citizens express anger over what they see as an attempt to intimidate critics of the government.
In response to the allegations, the Public Relations Officer of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, Timfon John, told the News Agency of Nigeria on Friday in Uyo that there was no official record of such an arrest. “We are not aware of such detention for now,” she stated, adding that the police would look into the matter once it receives a formal complaint.
The conflicting reports have led to growing demands for transparency. Human rights lawyer, Barrister Imoh Akpan, condemned the alleged incident and called for a full-scale investigation. “Even if she were arrested, there are procedures that must be followed, especially when it concerns a pregnant woman. If this turns out to be politically motivated, it must be condemned in its entirety,” he said.
Meanwhile, political observers in Akwa Ibom are keeping a close watch on the unfolding situation. They fear it could escalate tensions ahead of the next election cycle, especially if public trust in law enforcement continues to erode.
As of the time of filing this report, Blossom Williams’ whereabouts remain uncertain, and calls for her release have intensified. Many believe that how the authorities handle this case could set a precedent for the protection of civil liberties and freedom of expression in the state.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has promised to issue a more detailed statement once it gathers sufficient information on the incident. In the meantime, citizens continue to press for justice and accountability.
RELATED
