The Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has announced the release of journalist Zainab Sodiq, who was detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) over her possession of a drone.
In a statement issued on Saturday, IPI Nigeria’s Secretary, Ahmed Shekarau, said Sodiq was released to the leadership of the Institute at about 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 10, following the organisation’s intervention.
According to the statement, Sodiq was intercepted by security operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Monday, July 6, while preparing to travel with a drone.
Although she was allowed to continue her journey to Abuja, she was directed to report to the DSS headquarters on Wednesday, July 8, where she was subsequently detained for allegedly possessing the drone without the required End-User Certificate.
IPI Nigeria confirmed that the journalist has now regained her freedom after engagements with the security agency.
Reacting to the development, IPI Nigeria President, Musikilu Mojeed, welcomed Sodiq’s release and commended the DSS for responding positively to the Institute’s intervention.
“We are pleased that this matter has been resolved and that Sodiq has regained her freedom. We appreciate the DSS for responding to our intervention and for facilitating her release,” Mojeed said.
He noted that while security agencies have a responsibility to enforce laws and regulations aimed at protecting national security, such duties should be carried out with due regard for the constitutional rights of journalists and other citizens.
Mojeed also called for sustained dialogue between the media and security agencies to ensure that legitimate security concerns are addressed without unnecessarily hindering press freedom or journalists in the discharge of their professional responsibilities.
“We encourage continued dialogue and mutual understanding between security agencies and the media to ensure that legitimate security concerns are addressed without unduly impeding press freedom or journalists carrying out their professional duties,” he added.
IPI Nigeria also expressed appreciation to individuals and organisations that showed concern over Sodiq’s detention and supported efforts that led to her release.
The Institute reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement with relevant authorities to promote press freedom while recognising legitimate national security concerns within the framework of the law and respect for fundamental human rights.
