The Nigerian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has strongly criticized the recent arrest and detention of Azuka Ogujiuba, publisher of Media Room Hub, by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force. Ogujiuba, a former journalist with ThisDay newspapers, was reportedly covering a court case involving a land dispute when she was detained. IPI Nigeria expressed deep concern over what it described as an infringement of press freedom and a violation of Ogujiuba’s constitutional rights.
In a statement released on Tuesday, IPI Nigeria condemned the police’s actions, stating that Ogujiuba has been arrested and detained twice over the same matter. The institute described this pattern of behavior as deliberate harassment, clearly intended to intimidate and silence a journalist for lawfully carrying out her duties. According to IPI, such conduct not only threatens press freedom but also undermines Nigeria’s obligations under both the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
IPI Nigeria has called on the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to immediately intervene and ensure that Ogujiuba is no longer subjected to intimidation. The institute stressed that if there are any allegations against her, they should be addressed through legal procedures, not through unlawful detention or harassment.
Furthermore, the organization warned that continued harassment could result in the Inspector-General being added to IPI Nigeria’s “Book of Infamy”—a public list of individuals and institutions known for violating press freedom in the country. They reiterated the importance of allowing journalists to work without fear, especially when reporting on matters of public interest.
The statement concluded with a firm show of support for Azuka Ogujiuba and all journalists facing similar threats, urging law enforcement to respect constitutional rights and uphold Nigeria’s democratic values. The declaration was signed by Fidelis Mbah, Deputy President of IPI Nigeria, and Tobi Soniyi, Legal Adviser and Chair of the Advocacy Committee.