Man Behind ‘Niko Kadi’ Mass Registration Drive Alleges Government Threats

Journalist and emerging youth leader Allans Ademba

Activist Allans Ademba has come forward alleging government threats and intimidation after his TikTok account, which had millions of views and thousands of followers, was suspended.

In a post shared on X on Sunday, March 29, Ademba said he woke up at around 1 am to find his account disabled, attaching screenshots showing the suspension notice issued by the platform.

“This is just one of the threats after the government released its state machinery on me,” stated Ademba.

According to the notice, TikTok informed him that his account had been suspended and that he had 180 days to appeal before it is permanently disabled.

File image of Allan Ademba mobilising youths to register as voters

Ademba also shared performance metrics of his account, indicating it had amassed 18 million post views, 325,000 profile views, 1.6 million likes, 52,000 comments, and 63,000 shares.

He claimed the traction his content had gained is the reason he is being targeted, alleging that state agencies are behind efforts to silence him online.

The activist further alleged that intimidation has extended beyond social media, warning that disclosing the full extent of the threats could put his life at risk.

“If I reveal the other ways this government has been intimidating me my life will be in danger,” he said.

Ademba revealed that due to the alleged threats, he has resorted to using a basic feature phone, commonly known as a ‘kabambe,’ which lacks internet access.

While such devices are harder to track digitally compared to smartphones, they can still be traced through their International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers when connected to mobile networks.

His claims come amid ongoing concerns raised by human rights groups and activists over alleged digital surveillance and targeting of government critics under President William Ruto’s administration.

Ademba is the founder of the viral “Niko Kadi” initiative launched in February 2026, which seeks to mobilise young Kenyans to register as voters ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The movement, which began with a single social media post targeting unregistered voters in Kasarani, quickly gained momentum, registering 641 people on its first day and expanding across the country.

According to Ademba, the initiative focuses on civic education, increasing youth voter registration, and amplifying Gen Z participation in the electoral process.

He has also cautioned politicians against attempting to take over the movement, insisting it remains citizen-led and independent.

Meanwhile, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is set to begin a nationwide mass voter registration exercise starting Monday, April 30, targeting millions of eligible voters, particularly the youth.