Jonathan Biodun, a Nigerian man has been freed from prison after well-meaning individuals Nigerians contributed over ₦1,137,000 to help clear debts which led to his incarceration.
Social media mobilization leads to a Nigerian man’s freedom
The interest earned around Jonathan’s case grew when a group of Twitter influencers paid a visit to the Apapa Kirikiri prison for a football match with the inmates. He managed to slip a letter discretely to one of the visitors with a request for help.
Charity 101: 10 Largest Charitable Organizations in Nigeria making a real impact
The said letter sent out stated the following while addressing some of the influencers by name,
“I am reaching out on a first-name basis. As I mentioned, I have a social media account and have seen the things you do for people on Twitter: Murshid, Rahman, Sanady, and Isaac. I am here because of my debt, which amounts to ₦1,137,000,000.”
After sharing the letter, people seemed to portray stronger emotions and seemed more willing to help. This was something that Sir Dickson was expecting to happen when boosting the plea.
Sir Dickson, aka #Wizarab10, was very right when saying that claiming a debt in prison is not a criminal offence. It is sad to imagine people dying in prison just because they don’t have money to pay off their debts.
After people began to respond and try to aid the situation, funds gathered fast enough within weeks to help him pay off his debt. Helping him get released from prison.
Vote of thanks from the released inmate
“Hello, everyone. My name is Thomas Jonathan Biodun. I have just been released from Apapa Kirikiri Correctional Centre. I’m using this opportunity to thank everyone who donated, contributed, or supported me in any way. You have no idea what this freedom means to me.”
His immediate release from prison serves as a highlight of the power of social media advocacy in driving positive change, especially for people in need.