On Monday, a [Federal High Court](https://www.court.gov.ng) in Abuja ordered that Sanusi Dankaka be remanded to the Kuje Correctional Centre after the [Department of State Services (DSS)](https://dss.gov.ng) charged him with two counts of cyber‑crime for allegedly threatening to publish private videos and photographs of [Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abba_Yusuf) on Facebook.
**What are the specific charges?**
The prosecution filed charge number FHC/ABJ/CR/699/2026 on 22 October, alleging that the offences took place in October 2026 within Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State. The first count accuses Dankaka, operating a Facebook profile named "Sanusi Dankaka Yahaya," of attempting to circulate malicious content by claiming possession of nude material involving the governor and threatening its release. The second count mirrors the first, both citing violations of Section 27(1)(b) of the [Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cybercrimes_Act_(Nigeria)) and punishable under Section 24(1) of the same law.
**How did the court proceedings unfold?**
When the case was called, DSS counsel Yusuf Afegbua informed the bench that the prosecution was prepared to proceed with the arraignment. Defence lawyer Kauna Penzin also confirmed readiness for the hearing. After the charges were read, Dankaka entered a plea of not guilty to both counts. Afegbua later requested that the defendant be remanded to custody pending trial, stating, "The prosecution is ready to proceed and we seek a trial date to ensure justice is served."
**What was the court's decision?**
Justice Salim Ibrahim granted the request for remand, directing that Dankaka remain at the Kuje Correctional Centre while awaiting further proceedings. The judge adjourned the matter to 7 December for the trial date. Consequently, Dankaka will stay in custody until the next hearing.
**Why is this case significant?**
The incident underscores the Nigerian legal system's approach to cyber‑related offences, especially those involving threats to disseminate intimate material of public officials. It also highlights the application of the Cybercrimes Act in curbing the spread of malicious digital content and protecting the privacy of individuals in positions of authority.