Mike Oluwole, the former employer of 26-year-old photographer Nicholas Peter, has provided insights into why Peter spent 10 months in Keffi Correctional Centre. Oluwole claimed that Peter’s arrest stemmed from issues of theft, mismanagement, and defamation.
Oluwole explained that Peter initially approached him to sell a camera lens, which was later discovered to be stolen. Despite Peter’s claims that the lens belonged to a bedridden friend in need of funds, Oluwole became suspicious and required Peter to sign a document confirming the sale. Impressed with Peter’s photography skills, Oluwole employed him on a six-month probation with a monthly salary of N70,000. However, Oluwole noted that Peter often requested advances from the company’s IOU scheme, frequently defaulting on repayments.
Tensions escalated when Peter resigned via text message, which Oluwole found unprofessional. Shortly after, an office phone went missing, and CCTV footage revealed that Peter had returned to the office the day before his resignation, disconnected the camera, and reconnected it upon leaving. Oluwole reported the incident to the police, leading to Peter’s arrest and eventual confession to stealing the phone.
Despite attempts to withdraw the case, Oluwole’s efforts were unsuccessful, resulting in Peter’s detention. Oluwole also expressed frustration with a viral tweet that criticized him and his company, which he believes was an attempt to exploit Peter’s situation for financial gain.
Funke Adeoye, founder of Hope Behind Bars Africa, which facilitated Peter’s release, clarified that her foundation assists indigent individuals in legal distress. She confirmed that her team secured N50,000 in donations to cover Peter’s bail and provided him with stipends post-release. Adeoye denied any malicious intent behind her tweet and emphasized her commitment to supporting those in need.
