‘Politically motivated charges’ — coalition demands release of FIJ editor arrested in Benin Republic

The Coalition for Whistleblowers Protection and Press Freedom (CWPPF) has condemned the detention of Damilola Ayeni, editor of the Nigerian-based Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ). 

On Tuesday, the journalism foundation said Ayeni was arrested by the Commissariat Central, Parakou police station in the Republic of Benin, and slapped with charges bordering on “jihadism”. 

Ayeni was arrested while on a trip to the country for a Nigeria-Benin environmental journalism report.

FIJ said its editor has now spent five days in the custody of the police without food and water.

Reacting to the development in a statement on Wednesday, the coalition described the accusation against Ayeni as lacking “credible evidence and appears to be politically motivated”.

The group added that the government is deploying its anti-terrorism laws to suppress free speech and dissent in the subregion.

“The coalition calls on the government of the Republic of Benin and the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to take immediate action to rectify this situation, thereby upholding the principles of justice, rule of law and respect for human rights,” the statement reads.

“We stand united in demanding the immediate release of Mr Ayeni and the dropping of all unfounded charges.

“Diplomatic efforts, media campaigns, and advocacy will continue until justice is served. 

“In these trying times, it is crucial for governments around the world to protect the fundamental rights of journalists and ensure they can carry out their vital work without fear of persecution.”