Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of Isaac Bristol, the whistleblower behind the prominent “PIDOM Nigeria” account, in Kuje Correctional Centre until September 23.
Bristol, who faces nine charges related to cybercrime, pleaded not guilty during his arraignment.
The charges against Bristol, filed by the Nigerian Police Force, include mobilizing support for the #EndBadGovernance protest, making false money-laundering allegations against President Bola Tinubu, and unlawfully handling classified documents in violation of the Official Secrets Act of 1962.
Despite appeals from his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, for bail on health grounds, the judge declined, instructing the defence to submit a formal written application.
Bristol, who appeared in court visibly ill after 28 days in custody, will remain in detention until the next hearing.