BREAKING: CSOS, SOWORE STAGE PROTEST AT NIGERIA POLICE HEADQUARTERS, SEEKING RELEASE OF DETAINED FIJ REPORTER.

Babatunji Wusu –

On Thursday, the Action Group for the Protection of Civic Actors, along with human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, protested at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.

The rally was intended to urge the release of journalist Daniel Ojukwu, who works for the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ).

Recall that on May 1, the Nigeria Police Force reportedly arrested and detained Ojukwu on a “cybercrime” charge.

The group expressed concern about press freedom and Nigeria’s dwindling civic space, vowing to remain in the building until the journalist is released.

The coalition’s spokesperson, Bukky Shonibare, stated that public engagement and the free press are essential components of democracy. She cited the recent abduction and detention of Daniel Ojukwu as an example of disregard for democratic principles and the rule of law.

Sowore claims that under Egbetokun’s leadership, Nigerian police continue to display impunity and a brazen disdain for democratic norms and the rule of law.

The former presidential contender promised to spearhead a nationwide demonstration unless the police chief ordered the journalist’s immediate release.

He reminded the police that they had no jurisdiction to accuse any Nigerian, including journalists, with cyberstalking, citing the National Assembly’s revision to the Cybercrime Act 2015.