A HUMAN rights advocacy group, Conscience Foundation, has condemned the unjust arrest of Nigerian journalist, Mr Daniel Ojukwu, who was arrested by security personnel on May 1, 2024.
In a statement made available to National Record, and signed by Deborah Yusuf, Communications Officer, Conscience Foundation said Mr Ojukwu, known for his fearless reporting and commitment to journalistic integrity, was abducted in a most Gestapo manner from the streets of Lagos by operatives of the State on 1st May, 2024 and flown to Abuja where he has been detained under spurious circumstances.
The statement further read:
“Daniel Ojukwu is an investigative journalist, a renowned critic of corruption and injustice in Nigeria, who uses his pen as a journalist to shine light on issues that are often ignored or suppressed by those in power. His arrest is widely viewed as a retaliatory measure intended to silence dissent and intimidate other members of the press.
“As a Foundation dedicated to upholding the principles of press freedom and protecting the rights of journalists in Nigeria, we are deeply troubled by the arrest of Daniel Ojukwu. His detention represents a blatant violation of the fundamental right to freedom of expression, which is enshrined in both national and international laws and conventions.
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“We wish to state unequivocally that a free and viable Press is one of the inalienable pillars of a healthy democracy and society. Journalists by consequences, play a vital role in this regard, holding governments and institutions accountable, informing the public, and fostering open and healthy dialogue. When journalists like Daniel Ojukwu are therefore targeted and victimized for their work, it not only undermines press freedom but also threatens the very fabric of democracy.
“We therefore strongly call on the Nigerian authorities to immediately release Daniel Ojukwu forthwith, and drop all charges against him. We charge the government to respect the rights of journalists to report freely and without fear of reprisal.
“We wish to also make it clear, that anything to the contrary or any attempt to by any means, suppress press freedom will be met with swift and decisive condemnation and resistance by all lovers of freedom and egalitarian society.
“We therefore stand in solidarity with Daniel Ojukwu and all journalists who risk their lives and livelihoods to uncover the truth and hold power to account. We will continue to advocate for press freedom and work tirelessly to ensure that journalists can carry out their vital work without fear of persecution.”
