Activist Livinus Nwosu has spoken out following his release from detention, revealing he was issued a stern warning during his time in custody, sparking renewed concerns about civic engagement and freedom of expression in Nigeria. The incident, which occurred in June 2026, has drawn attention after social media activist VeryDarkMan raised alarms online, alleging that Nwosu was abducted by armed men linked to security agencies over his involvement in voter education and PVC sensitisation campaigns. Nwosu’s account, shared on social media, details a chilling conversation he had with a woman at a DSS office, where he was cautioned about the dangers of continuing his advocacy work.
According to Nwosu, the woman told him that if he were detained again, he might “disappear,” and that his efforts to “evangelise and show the public about what is happening” could lead to serious consequences in the future. He emphasized that his work has focused on promoting civic awareness, encouraging voter participation, and helping citizens understand their roles in governance and national development. His activism has gained traction in recent months, particularly through public enlightenment campaigns aimed at increasing voter turnout and transparency in electoral processes.
The warning, as Nwosu recounted, came amid heightened scrutiny of civil society actors and activists involved in electoral advocacy. His statement has since ignited discussions on the safety of civic educators and the broader implications for democratic participation in Nigeria. Many have expressed concern that such threats could discourage individuals from engaging in public discourse or voter mobilisation, especially as the country prepares for upcoming elections.
Nwosu’s experience echoes similar reports from other activists who have faced intimidation or detention for their work. The involvement of the DSS in his case adds a layer of complexity, as the agency has been at the centre of controversies regarding its handling of dissent and civil liberties. While no official statement has been released by the DSS confirming the incident, the activist’s account has been widely shared and verified through social media posts.
His words, “if they pick me again, I will disappear,” have resonated deeply with Nigerians, highlighting the risks faced by those who speak truth to power. The incident underscores the fragile balance between national security and the right to free expression, especially in the context of electoral campaigns. As Nigeria continues to navigate its democratic journey, cases like Nwosu’s serve as a reminder of the need for protection of civic actors and the importance of safeguarding democratic freedoms. The coming months may see increased scrutiny of how security agencies interact with activists, particularly as election-related activities intensify.
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