DSS arrests journalist covering Sowore over alleged possession of uncertified drone
The Department of State Services (DSS) has confirmed the arrest of journalist Zainab Sodiq, who covers the activities of former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, over the alleged possession of a drone without the required certification.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the DSS spokesperson, Favour Dozie, said Sodiq was intercepted on July 6 at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport by operatives of the Aviation Security (AVSEC) unit of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and DSS officials.
According to the statement, she was found in possession of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) while preparing to board a flight from Lagos to Abuja without an End User Certificate (EUC), a document required under regulations governing the acquisition and use of drones in Nigeria.
The DSS said Sodiq admitted she did not possess the necessary documentation. Despite this, she was allowed to board her flight to Abuja because of a prior engagement but was directed to report to the agency on Wednesday, July 8, to continue the investigation.
The agency disclosed that Sodiq is currently being held at its national headquarters in Abuja.
The DSS explained that its actions were in line with directives issued by the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), which restrict the acquisition and operation of remotely piloted aircraft systems. It said the regulations empower the service to impound drones and sanction individuals or organisations operating them without the required approval.
The service added that the measures are intended to address growing security concerns, including threats to public safety and privacy.
Reacting to the arrest, Sowore alleged that the journalist was detained for carrying out her professional duties.
In a post on X, Sowore said: “DSS has just arrested Zainab Sodiq, the journalist who covers my daily activities, and detained her at its headquarters in Abuja.”
He described the arrest as an attempt to intimidate journalists, accusing the administration and the DSS leadership of targeting press freedom.
The DSS, however, insisted that the arrest is connected solely to the alleged violation of regulations governing the possession and use of drones in Nigeria.
