Police free Abuja journalist after IPI Nigeria intervention

The International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has announced the release of Abuja-based journalist Stanley Ugagbe, a reporter with Secret Reporters, from police custody following the organisation’s intervention.

In a statement issued by IPI Nigeria’s Legal Adviser, Tobi Soniyi, the institute said Ugagbe was released on bail on Monday evening to IPI Nigeria President, Musikilu Mojeed, after intensive negotiations by the institute’s leadership.

Ugagbe was reportedly arrested on July 1 at his residence in Jikwoyi Phase II, Abuja, by four armed men dressed in civilian clothing, according to Secret Reporters Editor-in-Chief, Fejiro Oliver.

After efforts by IPI Nigeria to establish his whereabouts, the journalist was found at the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre in Abuja.

Although Ugagbe has been released, Soniyi said police investigations into allegations of espionage, cyberstalking and other computer-related offences are still ongoing. He added that IPI Nigeria would continue to monitor developments in the case.

Earlier, Oliver alleged that the journalist’s arrest might be connected to his recent investigative reports involving the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Emem Usoro. However, he noted that no government agency has officially stated the reason for the arrest.

Oliver also expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding the incident, saying they raise questions about press freedom, journalists’ safety and the protection of constitutional rights.