Headlines

Detained Journalist Denied Legal Access: Concerns Rise Over His Safety and Rights

“The case of Daniel Ojukwu, a journalist detained by the State Criminal Investigation Department in Lagos, has raised significant concerns over press freedom and human rights in Nigeria. Despite efforts by his lawyers, Ojukwu has been denied access to legal representation and communication with family or friends. Allegations of a lack of transparency surrounding his arrest, including the absence of a formal petition or remand warrant, add to the growing unease. As calls for his release intensify, questions arise over the responsibility and accountability of law enforcement agencies in upholding justice and protecting fundamental freedoms.”

Published

2 weeks ago

May 4, 2024

Stella Charles Akupue

Detained Journalist Denied Legal Access: Concerns Rise Over His Safety and Rights

Amid growing concerns over press freedom and human rights violations, Daniel Ojukwu, a journalist associated with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), has reportedly been detained and denied legal access by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Lagos, Nigeria.

Ojukwu’s situation sparked alarm after he went missing. His whereabouts were unknown to colleagues, family, and friends, and his phones were unreachable. The FIJ subsequently filed a missing persons’ report with local police stations, initiating efforts to locate him.

After an intensive search, a private detective hired by FIJ traced Ojukwu’s last active location to an address in Isheri Olofin. However, upon discovery, it was revealed that Ojukwu was in the custody of the SCID, where he was being held without access to legal representation, family, or friends.

Ridwan Oke, a lawyer involved in the case, disclosed that Ojukwu had been kept incommunicado by police officers, who were given express instructions not to allow him to contact anyone.

According to Oke, the SCID claimed to possess a remand and search warrant for Ojukwu’s arrest but failed to provide him with details or officially communicate the allegations against him. Ojukwu’s legal team has been unable to obtain access to the warrants or ascertain the basis for his detention, raising concerns about transparency and adherence to due process.

Despite the lack of formal charges, Ojukwu has reportedly been denied bail and has not been presented before a court of law, as Nigerian law requires.

The situation surrounding Ojukwu’s detention highlights broader issues surrounding press freedom and protecting human rights in Nigeria. With demands for Ojukwu’s release mounting, questions have been raised about the accountability of law enforcement agencies and the need to safeguard fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression and the press.

Despite repeated attempts to reach the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, for comment, there has been no official statement from the Nigerian Police Force regarding Ojukwu’s case.

As concerns grow over Ojukwu’s well-being and the legality of his detention, civil society organisations and media stakeholders have called for urgent action to ensure his rights are upheld and he is afforded due process. The Nigerian public awaits further developments in the case, hoping for transparency, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.