A group of Civil Society Organizations known as the Action Group for the Protection of Civic Actors and Human Rights activist, Omoyele Sowore yesterday ,held a protest at the Police Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Correspondence Report disclosed that the protesters had demanded the immediate release of journalist, Daniel Ojukwu, who works for the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ).
It will be recalled that the Nigerian Police Force had reportedly arrested and detained Ojukwu on May 1, over an allegation bordering on “Cybercrime”.
Action Group in their agitation has voiced it’s concern about Press Freedom and Nigeria’s declining civic space, pledging to stay in the building until the journalist is freed.
The Coalition’s spokesperson, Bukky Shonibare, stated that public engagement and the freedom of the Press are essential components of democracy.
She cited the recent abduction and detention of Comrade Ojukwu as an example of disregard for democratic principles and the rule of law.
Shonibare said, “ Civil society organisations across the country are deeply concerned about the growing cases of attacks on Press freedom, and the flagrant abuse of due process and the rule of law by the Nigeria police under the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM.”
Speaking also Omoyele Sowore alleged that under Egbetokun’s leadership, the Nigerian Police persist in showing impunity and a flagrant disregard for democratic principles and the rule of law.
The former Presidential candidate threatened to lead a mass demonstration across the country unless the police leadership ordered the journalist’s immediate release.
He reminded the police that they have no right to charge any Nigerian, including journalists, with Cyber stalking, citing the amendment of the Cybercrime Act 2015 by the National Assembly.
