By Ademola Adekusibe
September 28, 2025
The Department of State Services (DSS) has confirmed the arrest of Kaduna-based social media activist, Abubakar Muhammad, widely known as Sultan, over alleged cybercrime activities.
Security sources revealed that the activist was picked up on September 27 in Rigachikun, Igabi Local Government Area, after a petition accused him of using fake social media accounts to extort and threaten a citizen.
Investigators alleged that Sultan operated multiple accounts on X and Instagram, which he used to demand money through crypto wallets and POS transactions. The petitioner also claimed he was lured with the intention of a possible kidnap attempt.
According to DSS cyber experts, the suspect deleted the accounts when he realised he was under surveillance, but digital footprints and payment records were later retrieved from his mobile device.
Officials insist the arrest is not politically motivated but strictly tied to cybercrime.
“This case is about protecting citizens from online fraud, not politics,” a security source told reporters.
Reactions have since trailed the arrest, with some Nigerians accusing the DSS of targeting Sultan for his activism, while others say the matter should be allowed to go through the courts.
The activist is expected to be arraigned soon on charges of cybercrime, extortion, and threats to life.
