The Bayelsa State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been thrown into concern following the continued detention of its social media head, Aye S. Egberi, who has reportedly remained in custody for several months.
Egberi, a known APC social media influencer in the state, is currently being held at the Okaka Correctional Centre after his arrest over an online post allegedly linked to the Bayelsa State Governor Senator Douye Diri and the then Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu.
He was subsequently arraigned on charges bordering on cyberstalking and cyberbullying, offences under the Cybercrimes Act.
In an emotional message shared on an APC WhatsApp platform, Egberi lamented what he described as a prolonged and traumatic incarceration, calling on party leaders and stakeholders to intervene in his ordeal.
“I have been carrying a deep sense of sadness since the day of my arrest and incarceration at Okaka Prison,” he wrote. “For over four months now, my phone has remained seized for something I know nothing about. This prolonged uncertainty has been mentally and emotionally draining.”
He further expressed distress over being cut off from his online platforms, which he described as central to his identity and means of expression.
“What hurts even more is that I have been completely cut off from my social media accounts and online presence. Each time I remember that I cannot access my social media handles, I feel discouraged and unmotivated to write or express myself. It feels like a part of my voice and identity has been taken away,” he stated.
Reflecting on his experience, Egberi described the period as one of the most challenging phases of his life.
“This phase of my life has been incredibly tough, testing my patience, strength and faith. Despite the pain and confusion, I am holding on to hope and trusting that this storm will pass. I pray that God grants me the strength, wisdom and resilience to overcome this difficult chapter and emerge stronger,” he added.
Efforts to obtain official comments from the Bayelsa APC leadership and the state police command were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
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