Opposition and activists calls for the release of Daniel Ojukwu, a journalist affiliated with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), have intensified among opposition figures and activists in Nigeria following his detention last Wednesday in Lagos.
Ojukwu was apprehended by Nigerian police on allegations of violating the nation’s cybercrime laws and subsequently transferred to the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC), as reported by local sources on Sunday.
The arrest is believed to be linked to an investigative piece authored by Ojukwu last November, scrutinizing the actions of a senior government official, according to FIJ. While the Nigerian police confirmed Ojukwu’s detention, citing an ongoing investigation based on a petition against him, the identity of the petitioner remains undisclosed.
Demanding Ojukwu’s immediate release, family members, civil society organizations, and media advocacy groups have taken to social media platforms to amplify their calls. Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar condemned the arrest, emphasizing the vital role journalists play in upholding transparency within the government.
Amnesty International has labeled Ojukwu’s detention as “draconian,” bringing the case to the forefront as the international community marked #WorldPressFreedomDay on May 3. The incident has sparked widespread concern over press freedom in Nigeria, prompting renewed calls for respect for journalistic independence and protection of freedom of speech.
