Deji Adeyanju Raises Alarm Over Alleged Threats to Comedian Sarkin Dariya, Demands Protection

Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has raised concerns over the safety of popular Nigerian comedian and social commentator Oguche Ugbede Kenneth, widely known as Sarkin Dariya, following reports that the entertainer has received alleged threats linked to his satirical commentary on national issues.

In a public statement titled “Public Statement on the Safety of Sarkin Dariya,” Adeyanju, who said he is acting as the comedian’s legal representative, warned that relevant authorities should be held responsible if any harm comes to his client.

According to the lawyer, Sarkin Dariya has recently been subjected to a series of alleged threats after releasing satirical videos addressing issues of public concern in Nigeria. Adeyanju maintained that the comedian’s content falls within the constitutional right to freedom of expression and does not amount to any unlawful act.

Reports indicate that the comedian began receiving calls from unknown individuals, with at least two callers allegedly contacting him days earlier to issue warnings and threats over one of his satirical videos about the country. The alleged threats are now believed to be connected to the growing concerns surrounding his safety.

In the statement, Adeyanju emphasized that the situation should not be taken lightly, insisting that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to express opinions peacefully, including through satire and comedy.

“We act as Solicitors to Mr. Oguche Ugbede Kenneth, popularly known as Sarkin Dariya, on whose instruction we act,” the statement read.

“Our attention has been drawn to a series of threats directed at our client following his recent satirical and comedic commentaries on issues of public concern affecting Nigerians.”

The lawyer further argued that Sarkin Dariya has consistently exercised his right to free expression through lawful means and should not face intimidation or threats for expressing his views on matters affecting the public.

Adeyanju called on the appropriate security agencies to take the reported threats seriously and ensure that the comedian’s safety is protected. He also stressed that any attempt to intimidate citizens for peacefully expressing themselves would undermine the constitutional freedoms guaranteed to all Nigerians.

As of the time of publication, no official statement had been issued by law enforcement authorities regarding the alleged threats, and no arrests or formal investigations had been publicly announced.

The development has sparked conversations online about freedom of expression, the role of satire in democratic societies, and the need to safeguard individuals who use comedy and social commentary to discuss issues of public interest.