Daniel Ojukwu, a Journalist with FIJ, has released by the police after spending nine days in detention
This news had come after Ojukwu was secretly abducted by the police in Lagos on Wednesday, May 1 and subsequently transferred to Abuja about three days later.
Ojukwu had been in detention for nine days before he was given access to his phones, nut before then, he was declared missing after his family the journalist and FIJ management were oblivious of his whereabouts until 48 hours.
Ojukwu had been released on Friday, a day after a coalition of civil society groups and a human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore organised a protest at the Force Headquarters in Abuja to call for his release.
This was after the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of operations, DIG Ayuba Ede, had on Thursday, revealed that Ojukwu’s release would be at the discretion of the Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun.
What This Means
The civil society plays a crucial role in the society by championing for justice and transparency. In Daniel Ojukwu’s detention case, these civil society groups and activists like Omoyele Sowore organized protests, putting pressure on authorities to release him. Their collective voice raised the awareness and importance of press freedom and human rights, and also influenced the decision-making process.
Bottom Line
The Nigerian police force were compelled to free Daniel Ojukwu whom they had unfairly detained because of the concerted efforts of the civil society groups and activists.
