The International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos, through its Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) Hub, has condemned the Detention of Olalekan Akindoju, Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State Council, describing it as unlawful and calling for a formal apology from the Nigeria Police Force.
Key Highlights:
- IPC-SPJ Hub condemns alleged unlawful detention of NUJ official
- Journalist Olalekan Akindoju reportedly arrested at his Osogbo residence
- Incident occurred around 6 a.m. on Thursday, June 11, 2026
- Phone seized, identity as journalist allegedly ignored by officers
- Police reportedly released him after five hours, citing mistaken identity
- IPC demands apology and investigation into officers involved
Akindoju was reportedly arrested by policemen at his residence in Osogbo on Thursday, June 11, 2026, in an early morning operation that has since drawn strong criticism from press freedom advocates.
Speaking via telephone with the Press Freedom Officer of the IPC-SPJ Hub, Akindoju confirmed that the incident took place around 6 a.m.
“They invaded my residence this morning around 6 a.m., arrested me and seized my phone without any valid explanation. All attempts to identify myself as a journalist failed, as they refused to listen to me or give me opportunity to call anyone,” he said.
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He further stated that he was detained for nearly five hours before being released following the intervention of colleagues and officials of the NUJ.
“I was detained for almost five hours before I was released after the intervention of colleagues and the NUJ. The Police claimed it was a case of mistaken identity,” Akindoju added.
Reacting to the incident, the Executive Director of the IPC, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, described the arrest as unacceptable, stressing that security agencies must exercise due diligence before carrying out arrests, particularly involving journalists.
He urged authorities to uphold press freedom and prevent repeated cases of harassment, intimidation, and unlawful detention of media professionals.
The SPJ Hub called on the Nigeria Police Force, through the Commissioner of Police in Osun State, CP Ibrahim Gotan, to issue an official apology to Akindoju, investigate the incident thoroughly, and ensure that any officers found culpable are held accountable.
The group also reaffirmed the need to protect journalists and strengthen democratic safeguards for press freedom in Nigeria.
