The Concerned Christian Youth Forum has strongly condemned the actions of popular TikToker Ogunsanwo Olumide John, widely known as Seaking, following his recent arrest.
The social media influencer was taken into custody by the Nigeria Police in Lagos and subsequently transferred to the Federal Investigation Department (FID) in Abuja under the supervision of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Dasuki Galandanchi.
His arrest stemmed from allegations of cyberbullying after he posted a controversial video insulting Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
Seaking’s viral TikTok video, which sparked outrage among religious communities, contained derogatory remarks directed at Pastor Adeboye.
In the video, he called the revered clergyman “very stupid and foolish” for mandating a 100-day fast for his congregation.
The remarks quickly drew criticism from Christian groups, with many calling for action against the content creator for what they described as an unprovoked attack on a respected religious leader.
The petition that led to Seaking’s arrest was championed by the Concerned Christian Youth Forum, a group dedicated to defending Christian leaders against online harassment.
The forum’s convener, Adama Paul James, expressed deep dissatisfaction over Seaking’s conduct, stressing the need to curb what he described as the growing menace of digital disrespect.
“This act of brazen cyber harassment is not only reprehensible but also strikes at the heart of our cultural norms and values,” James said in a statement.
James further elaborated on the increasing trend of online attacks against Christian leaders, stating that such behavior poses a threat to societal values.
He noted that social media had given some young individuals a platform to insult elders and religious figures under the guise of freedom of speech and entertainment.
“The phenomenon of moral degeneration is reaching unprecedented levels, challenging the very fabric of our values. Christian leaders and elders deserve the utmost respect as they represent wisdom, experience, and our cultural legacy,” he asserted.
The forum’s leader confirmed that Seaking had been arrested and would soon be arraigned in court for his actions.
According to James, the TikToker’s comments were not just offensive but constituted a direct violation of Nigerian laws.
“This constitutes a grave violation of Nigerian cybercrime law, specifically Section 24 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2024, as amended, which criminalizes cyber harassment and makes it punishable by imprisonment,” he explained.
Seaking’s arrest has sparked mixed reactions across social media, with some users supporting the move, arguing that respect for religious leaders should not be compromised.
Others, however, believe that the arrest infringes on freedom of expression, questioning whether legal action was necessary for a mere social media post.
Some netizens argued that religious leaders should be open to public scrutiny and criticism, especially given their influential roles in society.
Despite the controversy, the Concerned Christian Youth Forum remains firm in its stance, vowing to take decisive action against similar cases in the future.
James emphasized that his organization would not tolerate unwarranted attacks on Christian leaders.
“We want to make it clear that disrespecting revered figures in Christianity will not be ignored. We will continue to take legal and moral steps to defend our faith and its representatives,” he stated.
The group also called on law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant in addressing cyber harassment cases.
James urged the authorities to enforce existing laws that protect individuals, particularly religious figures, from online abuse.
He warned that failing to do so could encourage further attacks on faith leaders and ultimately erode societal respect for elders and cultural values.
Meanwhile, Seaking’s legal team has remained relatively silent on the matter, though sources close to the TikToker suggest that he may challenge the charges in court.
His supporters argue that while his comments may have been inappropriate, they do not justify criminal prosecution.
Some legal experts have also weighed in, suggesting that the case could set a precedent for how digital speech is regulated in Nigeria.
As the controversy unfolds, religious organizations have continued to voice their opinions on the matter.
Some Christian groups have praised the government’s swift response, describing it as a necessary step to protect religious leaders from unwarranted verbal attacks.
Others, however, have called for a more balanced approach, urging religious figures to engage critics in meaningful discussions rather than resorting to legal measures.
The broader debate surrounding free speech, respect for religious institutions, and the role of social media in shaping discourse remains a hot topic.
Many believe that while criticism should be allowed, it should be expressed constructively and with decorum.
Others fear that excessive regulation of online speech could stifle free expression and set a dangerous precedent for future cases.
For now, Seaking remains in police custody, awaiting further legal proceedings.
Whether his case results in a conviction or sparks a wider legal debate, one thing is clear: the intersection of social media, religion, and the law in Nigeria is more contentious than ever.
