Daniel Ojukwu, a journalist with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), has reportedly been taken into custody by the Intelligence Response Team of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
Ojukwu is currently detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, in Lagos State, on allegations of cybercrime, according to FIJ.
He went missing on Wednesday, May 1, with his phone numbers turned off, causing concern among colleagues, family, and friends.
Despite efforts to locate him and file a missing person report, Ojukwu’s whereabouts remained unknown until a private detective hired by FIJ traced the last active location of his phones to an address in Isheri Olofin.
Subsequently, Ojukwu’s family learned of his detention at Panti, where he is accused of violating the 2015 Cybercrime Act.
However, attempts to contact the Investigating Police Officer have been unsuccessful, with authorities citing jurisdictional issues as the case extends beyond Lagos.
Ojukwu has been held without communication for three days, with no access to legal representation.
His abduction coincides with World Press Freedom Day, highlighting the importance of press freedom and freedom of expression.
This is not the first time FIJ has faced harassment from the police, as evidenced by an incident involving Bukky Shonibare, FIJ’s Board of Trustees chairman, in March.
Despite assurances that FIJ’s founder, ‘Fisayo Soyombo, was not declared wanted, the police have expressed intent to question him.
Despite requests for a formal invitation, FIJ has not received any communication from the police, indicating ongoing persecution of the organization by law enforcement.