A Nigerian man, who was incarcerated for failing to pay a ₦1.137 million debt, has been released after a heartfelt letter he wrote while in prison went viral, sparking widespread support. The man, whose name is Jonathan, expressed immense gratitude to those who contributed to the public fund that was raised to help pay off the debt and secure his release from Apapakene Correctional Center.
The story came to light after Jonathan’s emotional letter, written from prison, was shared online. This followed a visit to the prison by a group of social media influencers who were there for a friendly football match with the inmates. During the visit, one of the inmates discreetly handed over Jonathan’s letter to one of the influencers, who then made sure it was shared widely on social media. This letter revealed that Jonathan had been locked up for owing a creditor ₦1.137 million, and it appealed for help to settle the debt and gain his freedom.
The post went viral, quickly gaining the attention of many concerned Nigerians. One influencer, known as Wizard, took an active interest in the case and vowed to help raise the money necessary to settle the debt. A public donation campaign was launched, and within a few weeks, enough funds were gathered to clear the debt and facilitate Jonathan's release. In a video that was shared online, Jonathan can be seen walking out of the prison, visibly relieved and grateful for the outpouring of support from well-wishers. He expressed his thanks saying, “My name is Jonathan. I have just been released from Apapakene Correctional Center. I’m using this opportunity to sincerely thank everyone who donated, contributed, or supported me in any way. I am so grateful. You have no idea what this freedom means to me. From the depth of my heart, I’m saying a very big thank you to you all.”
The public donation campaign, which culminated in Jonathan’s release, was largely sparked by the viral sharing of his letter. Following the success of the initiative, many people have since praised the power of social media in helping to resolve situations that would otherwise have been left unnoticed. Jonathan’s case has become an example of how digital platforms can help solve pressing real-life problems and bring about tangible change in people’s lives.
Weeks prior to his release, the handwritten letter that Jonathan penned while in prison began circulating on social media after the visit by the influencers. The visit had been intended as a gesture of goodwill, but it ended up changing Jonathan's life as the letter was shared and eventually helped to mobilize public support.
As the post about his release spread online, many concerned Nigerians took to social media to share their thoughts and express their joy over Jonathan’s newfound freedom. The emotional reactions from commenters highlighted the importance of empathy and solidarity, and many people expressed their support for both Jonathan and the influencers who helped bring attention to his plight.
See some reactions below:
@olumaxia: “He should go and frame that note.”
@gbengaajiboy: “Thank God for the initiative to write that note! God bless the receiver and all those who acted on it.”
@ToluwalaseR: “Thank you for giving him hope. I don’t think anyone should be made to go to jail for minimal issue that could have been resolved quietly and quickly.”
@AdejokeKhadijah: “This video just made me teary, wish you the best Jonathan. Congratulations go and succeed man.”
@flairsense: “God bless you and all who did one of two things.”
@ekom_victoria: “God will bless you mightly and may you never lack helpers.”
@TemitopeOwoey11: “🥺Big thanks to everyone who helped with his release. Thank God for the initiative to write that letter. Glad he’s reunited with his family. That little boy’s smile.”
WATCH VIDEO:
Another take away from this situation is that education is very important. Imagine Jonathan wasn’t educated enough to use his intelligence to write a note to you? What could have been his fate?
You then imagine how many people are in prison today for similar or even less… https://t.co/YmaLUTthXb
— Foundational Nupe Lawyer (@egi_nupe___) February 28, 2025