Daniel Ojukwu, a reporter with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism, has been released after being detained by the Inspector General of Police’s Intelligence Response Team. His release came after days of advocacy and public pressure following his unexplained disappearance and detention.
Ojukwu disappeared on May 1, and his employers, unable to reach his phone, filed a missing person report.
As disclosed by FIJ on its website, Ojukwu regained his freedom on Friday after 10 days in police custody.
A private detective hired by FIJ later traced his last phone signal to an address in Isheri Olofin, which is believed to be the location where the police initially took him into custody.
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He was later found at Panti where he was accused of violating the 2015 Cybercrime Act. Moved to Abuja’s Police Cybercrime Centre, Ojukwu faced strict bail terms.
In response to his detention, a coalition of civil society groups held protests at the Force Headquarters on Thursday, calling for his immediate release.
The concerted call to action prompted the police to alter their course, culminating in Ojukwu’s freedom the following day.
