In a significant operation, the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Center has successfully arrested three individuals linked to the notorious Gistlover blog. The apprehension follows a petition filed by Hon and Doctor Mrs. Seye Oladejo, highlighting charges of Conspiracy, Cyberstalking, and Threats to Life.
A statement issued by the Nigeria Police Force spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, discloses that the suspects—Adebukola Kolapo, Nnedum Micheal Somtomchukwu, and Isaac Akpokighe—are integral members of the Gistlover family syndicate. This syndicate has long been responsible for the daily operations of the Gistlover blog, a microblogging platform infamous for its engagement in Cyberstalking, Incitement, Blackmail, and various illicit activities, triggering public outcry over the years.
Adebukola Kolapo, alias Omo oba Gistlover, played a pivotal role in creating over 80 percent of the Gistlover pages, using his digital footprint to facilitate criminal activities. Enjoying perks such as car gifts and financial incentives, Adebukola was responsible for scouting, editing, and captioning contents, including cyberstalking posts against the complainant, Hon. and Dr. Mrs. Oluseyi Oladejo. Additionally, Adebukola was implicated in money laundering activities related to the illicit scheme.
Digital forensic analysis uncovered eight Gistlover pages created under Adebukola’s direction, along with wallet addresses used for money laundering. Nnedum Somtochukwu, the second suspect, played a crucial role in the conspiracy, redirecting traffic to new pages whenever the blog faced sanctions. Nnedum also engaged in sharing defamatory content and remarks in collaboration with the head of the syndicate, enjoying incentives like referrals for promotions.
Isaac Akpokighe, the third suspect, mirrored the activities of Gistlover by creating several pages to imitate the blog’s operations, contributing to the spread of defamatory and life-threatening content. Digital forensics led to the recovery of four Gistlover pages created by Isaac Apkokogho.
The suspects will face charges in court upon the completion of the investigation. ACP Adejobi issued a stern warning against partnerships supporting illegal activities of Gistlover and similar blogs. Inspector General of Police, IGP Olukayode Egbetokun PhD. NPM, commended the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Center, led by CP Uche Ifeanyi Henry, emphasizing the force’s dedication to ensuring citizen safety in both physical and digital spaces.