A Nigerian man, Jonathan Biodun, who was imprisoned over a ₦1,137,000 debt, has regained his freedom after generous individuals raised funds to clear his obligation.
His release was announced in a video shared on X (formerly Twitter) by the Ray of Hope Prison Outreach, where Jonathan expressed deep gratitude to those who contributed to his freedom.
His case gained public attention after a group of social media influencers visited the correctional facility for a friendly football match with inmates. During the visit, Jonathan discreetly handed a letter to one of them, appealing for help.
In the letter, he wrote:
“I don’t have much time to write. Smallie, Wizarab, Lerry, Omotara, YomYom, Sir Jarus, etc., please help me out. I know you all on Twitter. I have seen how you’ve helped people online. I cried for assistance before being remanded, but Agba Jon Doe tagged me a scammer. My name is Jonathan, and I am here because of a debt of ₦1,137,000. Please help me out. I might have ‘misyarned’ online to any of you. Please overlook my attitude and help me out. This is my spouse’s number for further details.”
Moved by his plea, social media influencer Sir Dickson, also known as #Wizarab10, amplified his request, stating:
“Got this from prison yesterday through #Hausa_girl. Nobody should be in prison over a debt. It is not a criminal offense. I have spoken to #egi_nupe___, and we will be taking it up. Imagine rotting in prison because you’re poor. Thank you for your unwavering faith and support.”
Following a successful public fundraising campaign, the required amount was gathered, and Jonathan was eventually released from the Apapa Kirikiri Correctional Centre.
In a video after his release, an emotional Jonathan expressed his appreciation:
“Hello, everyone. My name is Thomas Jonathan Biodun. I have just been released from Apapa Kirikiri Correctional Centre. I’m using this opportunity to give a heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, contributed, or supported me in any way. I am so grateful. You have no idea what this freedom means to me. From the depth of my heart, I’m saying a very big thank you to you all.”
