NIGERIAN JOURNALIST UGAGBE FREED AFTER SEVERAL DAYS IN POLICE CUSTODY
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By:Tajudeen Aminat
The Nigeria chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has secured the release of journalist Stanley Ugagbe, a reporter with Secret Reporters, after he spent several days in police custody following his arrest by security operatives in Abuja.
In a statement issued on Monday, IPI Nigeria disclosed that Ugagbe was handed over to its President, Musikilu Mojeed, at about 7:30 p.m. on July 6 after sustained engagement with the police authorities.
The organisation said the journalist was granted bail, although investigations into allegations bordering on espionage, cyberstalking and other computer-related offences are still ongoing.
According to the statement, signed by IPI Nigeria’s Legal Adviser, Tobi Soniyi, Ugagbe was arrested at his Abuja residence last Wednesday by security operatives.
IPI Nigeria said it immediately began efforts to determine his whereabouts and identify the security agency responsible for his detention after learning of his arrest.
Its inquiries later confirmed that Ugagbe was being held at the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre.
The institute noted that it subsequently engaged the Police Headquarters and, following sustained representations and intensive negotiations, secured the journalist’s release.
IPI Nigeria expressed appreciation to the police authorities for their cooperation in facilitating Ugagbe’s release, while stating that it would continue to closely monitor the case.
The organisation also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting press freedom, promoting the safety of journalists, and ensuring media professionals can perform their constitutional duties without intimidation or unlawful interference.
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