Nigerian filmmaker and activist Stanley Ajemba, also known as Stanley Ontop, has been released from police custody. He was arrested on Tuesday and held at the Delta State Criminal Investigation Department in Asaba, following a defamation petition filed by actress Queeneth Hilbeth.
The arrest sparked widespread criticism on social media, with many celebrities calling for his release. Ajemba spent one night in detention before being released on Wednesday evening. The circumstances surrounding his arrest and detention have highlighted concerns about freedom of expression and the use of defamation laws in Nigeria.
Ajemba’s release was announced in a video posted on his Instagram page, in which he expressed gratitude to his team and family for their support. The video showed Ajemba celebrating his freedom, shouting “We are out, we’re out, we’re out!” and referencing the popular phrase “Aluta continua,” which means “the struggle continues” in Portuguese.
The incident has drawn attention to the tensions between freedom of expression and defamation laws in Nigeria. Defamation laws are intended to protect individuals from false and damaging statements, but they can also be used to silence critics and stifle public debate. The use of these laws to arrest and detain individuals, particularly public figures and activists, has raised concerns about the erosion of civil liberties in the country.
The release of Stanley Ajemba is seen as a positive development, but it also highlights the need for greater clarity and consistency in the application of defamation laws in Nigeria. As the country continues to navigate the complexities of freedom of expression and social media, incidents like this serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting fundamental human rights and promoting a culture of open and respectful public discourse.
Ajemba’s experience has sparked a wider conversation about the role of social media in shaping public opinion and the need for greater awareness and understanding of the laws and regulations that govern online expression. As Nigeria continues to evolve as a digital society, it is essential to strike a balance between protecting individual rights and promoting free and open public debate.