Breaking: Prominent Nigerian Activist “D English Alhaji” Reportedly Arrested and Missing Amid Exposés on Terrorism and Banditry
In a development that has sparked widespread concern and outrage across social media, reports are circulating that “D English Alhaji,” a well-known Nigerian humanitarian and activist, has been arrested by security forces and taken to an unknown location.
The activist, celebrated for his fearless exposés on the activities of Islamic terrorists, bandits, and Fulani herdsmen, has allegedly been missing for three days, fueling fears for his safety and calls for his immediate release.
Who is “D English Alhaji”?
“D English Alhaji,” whose real name remains largely undisclosed in public reports, has built a massive following on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) by sharing raw, firsthand accounts of security threats in Nigeria’s northern regions.
He is often described as a citizen journalist who uses videos and posts to highlight attacks, kidnappings, and atrocities committed by armed groups, including Boko Haram affiliates, bandits, and nomadic herdsmen involved in farmer-herder conflicts.
His content frequently includes updates on terrorist invasions, such as a recent report on an attack in the Chacho community in Sokoto State’s Wurno Local Government Area.
Supporters praise him as a voice for the voiceless, exposing what they see as government inaction or complicity in ongoing insecurity.
Moreover, His page on Facebook, where he has over 18,000 followers, features videos titled “GOOD NEWS” and “Not again,” often blending breaking news with calls for justice.
In one notable post from November 2025, he highlighted the arrest of another individual for criticizing a local government chairman, drawing parallels to broader issues of free speech suppression.
Reports of the Arrest
The news of his arrest broke on social media on January 8, 2026, with multiple users sharing identical or similar accounts.
According to these reports, “D English Alhaji” was detained by agents believed to be from the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria’s domestic intelligence agency.
Reports claim he was taken to an undisclosed location, and his whereabouts remain unknown, with no official statement from Nigerian authorities as of this writing.
One widely shared video, reposted by users like @General_Somto on X, another prominent activist urging Nigerians to share the information until his location is revealed, emphasizing his role in exposing killings and kidnappings.
The reports suggest the arrest occurred shortly after he continued his advocacy, with some speculating it was in retaliation for his revelations.
Prior Warnings of Arrest
Adding to the intrigue, “D English Alhaji” had reportedly foreshadowed his own detention. In one of his earlier videos, he claimed to have received intelligence about plans to arrest him, possibly due to his persistent criticism of security lapses and alleged cover-ups.
This premonition has been cited by supporters as evidence of targeted suppression, with one X user noting, “I knew they will come for D English Alhaji, Nigeria security are always quick to arrest anyone who exposes their incompetence.
While the exact video has been referenced in social media discussions, it aligns with his pattern of warning about threats to whistleblowers.
Public Reaction and Calls for Action
The news has ignited a firestorm online, with hashtags like #JusticeForDEnglishAlhaji and #FreeEnglishAlhaji trending on X and Facebook.
Activists and ordinary Nigerians are demanding transparency from the government, questioning why someone aiding public awareness on terrorism is being silenced while perpetrators roam free.
Comments range from prayers for his safety—”You are coming out sound and strong, in Jesus name Amen”—to criticisms of the system: “If they explain Nigeria to You and You understand. You are a genius.
However, International figures have been tagged in posts, including @realDonaldTrump and @netanyahu, in hopes of drawing global attention.
Human rights groups are yet to issue statements, but similar cases in Nigeria, such as the 2019 detention of activist Omoyele Sowore for calling protests, highlight a pattern of intolerance toward dissent.
Government Silence and Broader Implications
As of January 9, 2026, there has been no official response from the Nigerian government, DSS, or police confirming or denying the arrest.
This lack of clarity has amplified fears of enforced disappearance, a tactic criticized by human rights organizations in the past.
The incident raises questions about freedom of expression in Nigeria, especially for those tackling sensitive issues like ethnic violence and terrorism.
UrbanGist Media will continue to monitor this story and update as more details emerge. If you have information or tips, contact us at info@urbangist.com.ng.
In the meantime, advocates urge Nigerians to keep sharing the story to pressure authorities for accountability.
