Emmanuel Uti, a journalist with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), has been detained by the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) annex in Lagos.
According to FIJ, Uti is being accused of criminal conspiracy and cyberbullying in connection with a report published on November 28, 2024. The report exposed how a Lagos resident paid ₦4 million to Beverly Basil of Expedia Consult for Canadian admission services in 2023, only for Basil to abscond with the money.
The police had summoned Uti through a letter dated December 16, 2024, signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration), DCP Ibrahim Jibrin, on behalf of the Assistant Inspector General of FCID Annex, Alagbon.
The letter stated: “The Force Criminal Investigation Department Annex Lagos is investigating a case of Criminal Conspiracy and Cyberbullying in which the need to obtain certain clarification from you has become imperative.
“You are requested to report at the Force Criminal Investigation Department Annex, Alagbon Close, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday, 18th December, 2024, at 10:00 am. On arrival, you are to meet with SP Magaji Ibrahim attached to the T.LU Section, who will attend to you.
“This fact-finding exercise is pursuant to the investigative powers conferred on the Nigeria Police Force by Section 214 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and Section 4(a) of the Police Act 2020.
“Your presence will assist in advancing the course of criminal justice delivery and fairness. Should you require any clarification, kindly contact 08038249713/09033551697. You are also at liberty to come with your lawyer(s).”
FIJ disclosed that Uti honored the invitation, accompanied by one of the organization’s lawyers, to meet SP Magaji Ibrahim for what was described as a “fact-finding” session.
However, after hours of interrogation, the police reportedly denied Uti access to calls and began making arrangements to detain him overnight.
FIJ expressed concerns that Uti’s detention might continue unless the situation changes. The organization also raised alarm over the potential implications of this development on press freedom and the ongoing intimidation of journalists in Nigeria by state authorities.
FIJ further stated that it contacted the Force Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Olumuyiwa Adejobi, regarding Uti’s detention. Adejobi reportedly assured FIJ that he would look into the matter.
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