CSOs Condemn Remand of Journalist Daniel Ojukwu Over Investigative Reports
Civil society groups demand immediate release of journalist facing cybercrime and defamation charges.
1Journalist Remanded in Abuja
Investigative journalist Daniel Ojukwu has been remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre following a Federal High Court order. He faces 12 counts of cyberstalking and criminal defamation. The charges stem from reports published between November 2023 and January 2024 regarding the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs.
2Civil Society Organizations Protest
A coalition of civil society groups, including SERAP and BudgIT, issued a joint statement condemning the detention. They argue the prosecution attempts to criminalize legitimate investigative reporting. The organizations demand Ojukwu’s immediate release and urge authorities to stop using cybercrime laws to intimidate journalists who hold public officials accountable for spending.
3Disputed Public Expenditure Reports
The prosecution concerns reports questioning the utilization of public funds, specifically 147.1 million naira for classroom construction and 47.5 million naira for other contracts. Investigations by FIJ alleged that solar installations funded under these projects ceased functioning shortly after completion, raising significant concerns regarding the transparency and efficacy of government-led development initiatives.
4Legal Proceedings and Bail
Presiding Judge Joyce Abdulmalik declined to hear the bail application on Tuesday, stating it was not yet ripe for consideration. Ojukwu’s legal counsel, Atanda Kayode, noted that his client had previously complied with administrative bail conditions. The court has scheduled the next hearing for the bail application to take place on 1 December.
5Pattern of Harassment Concerns
This case marks a renewed legal challenge against Ojukwu, who was previously detained for 10 days in May 2024. Rights advocates emphasize that the repeated prosecution creates a climate of fear for whistleblowers and journalists. They argue that officials should pursue civil remedies for defamation rather than resorting to criminal charges against reporters.
6Constitutional Protections Cited
The coalition cited Sections 22 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, which mandate the press to hold the government accountable. They also referenced protections under the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights. These legal frameworks are intended to guarantee freedom of expression and protect journalists from state-led intimidation during their professional duties.
7Government Accountability Demands
Beyond the release of the journalist, the organizations called on the government to address the underlying questions raised by the investigations. They urged authorities to release relevant public records and subject the disputed projects to independent scrutiny. Transparency, they argue, is incompatible with the criminal prosecution of those investigating public resource usage.
8Broader Implications for Media
The outcome of this case will likely influence the future of investigative journalism in Nigeria. As the court prepares for the December hearing, the case serves as a litmus test for the administration's commitment to anti-corruption efforts. Observers are watching to see if the judiciary will uphold press freedom or allow criminalization.