Police: Daniel Ojukwu was lawfully arrested — he has a case to answer

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.”