Journalist Daniel Ojukwu, employed by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), has been apprehended by the Intelligence Response Team of the Inspector General of Police on allegations of cybercrime.
As disclosed by FIJ, Ojukwu vanished on May 1st, with his whereabouts unknown until a private investigator hired by FIJ traced his last phone activity to Isheri Olofin.
He was subsequently located at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, in Lagos.
Despite efforts by FIJ to file a missing person report, Ojukwu remained incommunicado for three days without access to legal counsel. His detention coincides with World Press Freedom Day, raising concerns about press freedom in Nigeria. FIJ has faced previous harassment from law enforcement, notably in March when FIJ’s Board of Trustees chairman, Bukky Shonibare, was questioned regarding FIJ’s investigative reporting on financial mismanagement.
The police have not provided a clear explanation for Ojukwu’s detention, contributing to fears of ongoing persecution against FIJ.
Despite assurances that FIJ’s founder, ‘Fisayo Soyombo, is not wanted, there are indications of impending questioning. However, FIJ claims to have received no formal communication from the police regarding this matter.
