Calls Intensify for Release of Nigerian Journalist Arrested Under Cyber-Crime Laws

Lagos, Nigeria - Nigerian opposition leaders and human rights activists are demanding the release of Daniel Ojukwu, a journalist with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), who was arrested last Wednesday in Lagos. The arrest has sparked significant public outcry and raised concerns over press freedom in Nigeria.

Ojukwu was taken into custody following accusations of violating the country's cyber-crime laws, according to local media reports.

He was later transferred to the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) on Sunday. The arrest is reportedly linked to a story Ojukwu wrote last November that implicated a senior government official, the FIJ stated.

Police spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi confirmed that Ojukwu is facing charges based on a petition filed against him, although the identity of the petitioner has not been disclosed. The specifics of the allegations remain unclear.

The journalist's prolonged detention has led to widespread condemnation on social media, with his family and various media advocacy groups calling for his unconditional release.

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar criticized the arrest on the X platform, emphasizing that detaining journalists for exposing governmental misconduct is not only irresponsible but also a violation of constitutionally guaranteed press freedoms.

Amnesty International has also stepped in, describing the detention as "draconian" and calling for Ojukwu's immediate release. This incident has highlighted ongoing issues related to press freedom in Nigeria, which is ranked 112th out of 180 countries in the latest World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

RSF notes that Nigeria remains one of the most dangerous and challenging countries for journalists in West Africa, with nearly 20 journalists and media outlets attacked during the general elections in February and March 2023.

The international and local pressure continues to mount, urging Nigerian authorities to uphold press freedom and ensure fair treatment and justice for Daniel Ojukwu.