The Nigeria Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) announces the release of Stanley Ugagbe, a reporter with Secret Reporters, from police custody following the Institute’s intervention.
Mr Ugagbe was released to the President of IPI Nigeria, Musikilu Mojeed on Monday on bail as police investigations into allegations of espionage, cyberstalking and other computer-related offences are said to be ongoing.
Mr Ugagbe was reportedly arrested at his residence in Jikwoyi, Abuja, on Wednesday by security operatives. Reports available to IPI Nigeria indicated that following his arrest, his phone and laptop were also taken, while his whereabouts remained unclear for several days.
His detention drew widespread concern within the media community because of the manner of his arrest and the initial lack of information about the agency holding him.
Preliminary reports also suggested that his arrest may have been connected to recent investigative reports published by Secret Reporters, where he works as a journalist.
Immediately IPI Nigeria received information about his arrest, the Institute began efforts to establish his whereabouts and determine the security agency responsible for his detention.
Following sustained enquiries and engagements with relevant authorities, it was confirmed that Mr Ugagbe was being held at the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre, Abuja.
The leadership of IPI Nigeria subsequently engaged the Police Headquarters and, after sustained representations and intensive negotiations, secured his release.
IPI Nigeria appreciates the cooperation of the police authorities in facilitating Mr Ugagbe’s release and will continue to monitor the case closely to ensure that his rights, and those of all media professionals, are fully respected, said Mr Tobi Soniyi, the Institute’s legal adviser.
This case once again highlights growing concerns over the treatment of journalists in Nigeria, particularly in cases involving investigative reporting and matters that should ordinarily be addressed through lawful civil processes rather than intimidation or prolonged detention.
IPI Nigeria remains committed to defending press freedom, promoting the safety of journalists, and ensuring that media professionals are able to carry out their constitutional responsibilities without intimidation, harassment or unlawful interference.
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