The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Sierra Leone Police has invited the Secretary General of the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) to respond to allegations of cyber bullying and inciteful statements allegedly made during the party’s recent mammoth meeting in Freetown.
The development follows widespread circulation of video and audio clips on social media in which the APC Secretary General is heard making remarks that some members of the public and civil society groups have described as inflammatory and capable of provoking public disorder.
According to police sources, the invitation forms part of an ongoing investigation into whether the comments violated provisions of the Cyber Security and Crime Act as well as other public order laws.
The mammoth meeting, held at the Brima Attouga Mini Stadium, attracted thousands of APC supporters from across the Western Area and beyond, as party leaders rallied members around unity, mobilisation, and preparations toward the 2028 general elections.
However, portions of the Secretary General’s speech, which later went viral online, sparked controversy, with critics accusing him of using language that could fuel political tension and hostility in an already polarised environment.
A senior police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the CID is treating the matter seriously.
“We have invited the APC Secretary General to assist the police with investigations relating to statements that are being widely shared on social media and considered by some as cyber harassment and incitement. The process is in line with the law, and no one is above it,” the officer said.
Supporters of the APC, however, have described the police action as politically motivated, arguing that the Secretary General merely exercised his right to free speech in mobilising party members.
“This is intimidation,” one APC supporter said. “He was speaking to his people at a political gathering. Now they are using the police to silence opposition voices.”
Meanwhile, several governance and peace advocacy groups have welcomed the police intervention, stressing the need for responsible political communication, especially as the country gradually moves toward another election cycle.
They warned that reckless statements on digital platforms can quickly escalate into violence if not checked.
As of press time, the APC had not issued an official statement on the matter, while the Secretary General was expected to honour the police invitation.
The outcome of the CID investigation is expected to shape the next steps, including whether formal charges will be preferred or the matter resolved administratively.
For now, the development adds another layer of tension to Sierra Leone’s political landscape, where the balance between free expression and public order continues to spark national debate.
