The International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) says Stanley Ugagbe, a journalist with Secret Reporters, has been released from police custody following its intervention.
According to a statement signed by IPI’s legal adviser, Tobi Soniyi, on Monday, Mr Ugagbe was released to IPI Nigeria’s president, Musikilu Mojeed, at approximately 7:30 p.m.
“The Nigeria Committee of the IPI Nigeria is pleased to announce that Stanley Ugagbe, a reporter with Secret Reporters, an online news platform, has been released from police custody following the Institute’s intervention.
“Ugagbe was released to the President of IPI Nigeria, Musikilu Mojeed, at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Monday,” the IPI statement said.
It added that although Mr Ugagbe had been granted bail, police investigations into allegations of espionage, cyberstalking and computer-related offences were continuing.
“Ugagbe was reportedly arrested from his residence in Abuja last Wednesday by security operatives. Immediately, IPI Nigeria received reports of his arrest, the institute commenced efforts to establish his whereabouts and the security agency responsible for his detention.
“Following enquiries and engagements with relevant authorities, it was confirmed that he was being held at the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre, Abuja,” the statement said.
It noted that the leadership of IPI Nigeria subsequently engaged the police headquarters and, after sustained representations and intensive negotiations, secured Mr Ugagbe’s release.
“IPI Nigeria appreciates the cooperation of the police authorities in facilitating his release and will continue to monitor the case closely.
“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,” added the statement.