Key Points

• Nigerian tech CEO arrested for child exploitation via Telegram group.

• He paid N7,500 to access child abuse content online.

• NSCDC recovered explicit materials from his phone during arrest.

A Nigerian tech entrepreneur has been arrested for allegedly participating in an online child exploitation network operated through a Telegram group.

The suspect, Adebayo Sikiru Abiodun, is the founder and CEO of Geebless International, a tech firm based in Lagos.

According to the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Abiodun paid to access sexually explicit images of minors. The group he joined, “Pervert World,” was exposed by undercover FIJ reporters in April.

FIJ reports that Abiodun paid N7,500 through a Nigerian bank transfer to join the group, which offered members folders containing images and videos of child sexual abuse.

He allegedly expressed dissatisfaction with the first folder and requested more content, unaware he was communicating with an undercover reporter.

During his arrest, NSCDC agents recovered a phone from Abiodun that contained folders with disturbing images. Authorities say the evidence links him directly to the exploitation network.

Telegram abuse group used cryptocurrency, bank transfers

The secret Telegram group operated with strict rules. Members were vetted through payment and directed to join additional folders of child abuse material.

Some transactions were completed using cryptocurrency, while others used Nigerian bank transfers, helping members mask their identities.

FIJ’s investigative work led to the group’s deactivation. Abiodun, however, was identified as one of the few using his real name and verifiable contact details in communication.

His background in tech made the case more shocking, as he had portrayed himself publicly as a cybersecurity and IT training expert.

According to NSCDC sources, investigators are expanding their probe to identify more Nigerians who engaged with the group.

The authorities emphasized that no one involved in child exploitation will go unpunished.

Authorities plan crackdown on online child exploitation rings

Abiodun is expected to face charges under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act and Child Rights Act. If convicted, he could receive a long prison sentence.

Officials have assured the public that this is only the beginning of a broader crackdown on digital child abuse networks.

The NSCDC has appealed to the public for cooperation and has encouraged tech users to report suspicious activity online.

Meanwhile, Geebless International has taken down its website and removed its digital presence amid growing backlash.

This arrest has sparked nationwide outrage and renewed calls for better monitoring of online platforms to protect children from exploitation.