NIGERIA: NACAT Demands Immediate Release Of Journalist Fejiro Oliver From Unlawful Detention

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

The Network Against Corruption and Anti-Drug Trafficking (NACAT) has strongly condemned the arrest and continued detention of its Chairman, Mr Fejiro Oliver, describing the action as unlawful, unconstitutional, and politically motivated.

In a statement released on Saturday signed by its Operations Manager, Stanley Ugagbe, the organisation alleged that operatives of the Nigerian Police Force, led by the Delta State Commissioner of Police, Abaniwonda Olufemi, carried out the arrest on the instruction of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District.

Mr Oliver was reportedly picked up in Abuja on Thursday and immediately transferred to Asaba, Delta State, where he is being detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).

Describing Oliver as a fearless journalist, whistleblower, and anti-corruption advocate, NACAT said his detention is an attack on free speech, civil liberties, and Nigeria’s democracy.

“This crude attempt to silence him is not just an attack on an individual, but a direct assault on civil liberties, freedom of expression and the soul of Nigeria’s democracy,” the statement read.

The group demanded Oliver’s immediate and unconditional release, warning that the development is a litmus test for Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law and human rights.

It also called on the media, civil society, human rights defenders, and the international community to rise in defence of justice..