Nigerian journalist Ugagbe released after days in police detention

The Nigeria Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has secured the release of journalist, Stanley Ugagbe, a reporter with Secret Reporters, after days in police custody following his arrest by security operatives in Abuja.

In a statement issued on Monday, IPI Nigeria said Ugagbe was released to its President, Musikilu Mojeed, at about 7:30 p.m. on July 6 after sustained engagement with the police authorities.

The institute said Ugagbe had been granted bail, although investigations into allegations of espionage, cyberstalking and computer-related offences against him are continuing.

According to the statement signed by IPI Nigeria’s Legal Adviser, Tobi Soniyi, the journalist was arrested from his residence in Abuja last Wednesday by security operatives.

It said that immediately reports of his arrest reached the institute, efforts were launched to determine his whereabouts and identify the security agency responsible for his detention.

The statement noted that the enquiries established that Ugagbe was being held at the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre.

“Immediately IPI Nigeria received reports of his arrest, the Institute commenced efforts to establish his whereabouts and determine the security agency responsible for his detention,” the statement said.

It added that the leadership of IPI Nigeria subsequently engaged the Police Headquarters and, “after sustained representations and intensive negotiations, secured Mr Ugagbe’s release.”

The institute expressed appreciation to the police authorities for their cooperation in facilitating the journalist’s release and said it would continue to monitor the case closely.

IPI Nigeria also reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom and safeguarding journalists.

“The Institute remains committed to defending press freedom, promoting the safety of journalists, and ensuring that media professionals can carry out their constitutional responsibilities without intimidation or unlawful interference,” the statement added.