The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) says the arrest of Daniel Ojukwu, a journalist with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), followed due process.
Ojukwu went missing on May 1 and could not be reached by
family and friends for three days.
The journalist’s arrest and detention sparked outrage, amid
calls for his release on social media platforms.
On May 9, activists and a coalition of civil society
organisations (CSOs) protested Ojukwu’s incarceration at the police
headquarters in Abuja.
On May 10, the police released Ojukwu after he had spent
nine days in custody.
In a statement, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, police force public
relations officer, said Ojukwu’s release had nothing to do with the protest by
CSOs.
Adejobi reiterated that Ojukwu was arrested based on alleged
violations of provisions of the cybercrime act.
“The Nigeria Police Force hereby addresses recent
developments regarding the arrest and investigation of Mr. Daniel Ojukwu,
reiterating that contrary to speculative reports, Mr. Ojukwu’s investigation is
in strict compliance with legal protocols and procedures,” the statement reads.
“Mr. Ojukwu was lawfully apprehended and detained pursuant
to a valid remand warrant issued by a competent court of justice on May 2nd
2024.
“His initial detention in Lagos and subsequent transfer to
Abuja by the FCID-National Cybercrime Centre (NCCC) aligns with standard
investigative procedures undertaken by police.
“The detention of Mr. Ojukwu is linked to allegations of
violating provisions of the Cybercrime Act, and other extant laws pertaining to
cyber related crimes.
“These allegations
stem from a report concerning financial transactions and contract execution
upon which he was petitioned to the Nigeria Police for investigations.
“With our preliminary forensic investigation, and recovery
of some contents generated by the suspect, Mr. Ojukwu has a case to answer and
as such will be arraigned in court upon conclusion of investigations.”
The police added that Ojukwu was released after bail
conditions were met.
“In the same vein, the Police did not deny Mr. Ojukwu bail,
as it was predicated on him meeting the conditions set for the bail,” the
statement adds.
“He has however been
released upon providing a reliable surety today Friday 10th May, 2024, pending
the commencement of prosecution at the Federal High Court which has
jurisdiction over cyber related crimes.
“It is instructive to note that his release has no
correlation with the unwarranted protest held at the Police Headquarters on 9th
May, 2024, but strictly due to him meeting the bail requirements and the policy
of the Force on being rule of law compliant.
“The Nigeria Police
Force remains steadfast in its duty to maintain law and order, uphold justice,
and safeguard the rights of all citizens.
“We urge the public and media outlets to refrain from
speculations and undue media trial in order to avoid jeopardizing the legal
procedures in the case.”
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