Executive Director of LightRay! Media, Lady Ejiro Umukoro, has expressed concern over the arrest and detention of investigative journalist and pioneer Editor of BBC Pidgin Service, Adejuwon Soyinka, by the Department of State Services (DSS), describing the development as a new wave of intimidation of journalists and furthering the erosion of press freedom in Nigeria.
Umukoro stated that Soyinka was arrested at Murtala Muhammad International Airport, Lagos on August 25, 2024, upon his return from the UK, thus raising another layer of concern about worsening violations of the rights of journalists in recent times.
She said, “Following the intervention of the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria, Soyinka was released, but his passport was withheld by operatives of DSS.”
The Pulitzer centre recognized investigative journalists charged the operatives of DSS to return Soyinka’s passport, respect journalists’ rights, and protect press freedom.
She also called on the Nigerian government to uphold its constitutional obligations and international human rights commitments, and ensure a safe and enabling environment for journalists to perform their vital role.
Umukoro noted that, “This year, scores of female and male journalists including Kasarahchi Aniagolu, Segun Olatunji, Daniel Ojukwu, and Jamil Mabai have faced harassment, highlighting a troubling trend.”
She expressed unalloyed commitment to sustain advocacy for the protection of journalists’ rights, saying, “LightRay! Media stands in solidarity with Nigerian journalists who courageously report on critical issues.
“We reaffirm our commitment to supporting a free and independent press in Nigeria, promoting investigative journalism that sheds light on important stories and fosters accountability.”
She continued, “LightRay! Media and other press freedom advocates will continue monitoring the situation, promoting a safe and enabling environment for journalists, and advocating for the protection of journalists’ rights across West Africa, and promoting a culture of transparency and accountability.”
