Jennifer “Niffer” Jovin, a 26-year-old influencer and entrepreneur from Tanzania, is now facing serious treason charges, a crime that can lead to the death penalty, after posting a brief dance video on her TikTok page.
What began as a lighthearted moment on TikTok has turned into one of the most astonishing crackdowns on free expression in East Africa.
Jovin participated in the “Nywi-nywi” Challenge, a viral trend inspired by a remix of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s speech. The accompanying song, “Raïs Samia – MAANDAMANO YA Nywi-nywi-nywi,” gained popularity for its humor and political satire. While many users viewed it as just another playful online trend, Tanzanian authorities saw it as a dangerous threat.
Police contend that Jovin’s dance “mocked the presidency,” incited unauthorized protests, and violated public order. They argue that the remix incited violence and linked the trend to ongoing turmoil surrounding the nation’s controversial general election. Jovin was arrested in Dar es Salaam and appeared in court the following day, where she faced formal treason charges.
She is not alone in this predicament. Reports indicate that more than 200 young Tanzanians, many of whom are small creators, are facing similar accusations for participating in the dance challenge. These arrests followed the October 29, 2025, election, in which President Samia Suluhu Hassan secured 97 percent of the votes. The opposition’s leading candidate, Tundu Lissu, was barred from running and subsequently detained on treason charges.
Check out the viral dance below:
The immediate backlash online has been significant. Thousands on TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) are denouncing the charges as extreme and politically charged. Many believe the government is suppressing any form of dissent, even one expressed through dance.
International news outlets, including The Guardian, AP News, Reuters, and Le Monde, have begun covering the rising number of arrests, portraying a tense environment in which songs, memes, and viral videos are perceived as threats to state security. Reports suggest that at least 76 individuals have been detained recently on charges related to treason or sedition.
