The illegal arrest of Nigerian journalist Segun Olatunji by armed military personnel appears to be linked to a series of investigative stories.
This statement was originally published on mfwa.org on 17 March 2024.
The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) condemns the arrest of Segun Olatunji, the editor of FirstNews, an online news platform based in Lagos, South West Nigeria.
Olatunji was whisked away from his home in Iyana Odo, Abule Egba area of Lagos, by armed men in military uniform on March 15, 2024.
According to a statement by the management of his media outlet, his arrest is linked to a series of accountability stories being published by FirstNews.
Three days after his arrest, there has been no response from the military or any of the security agencies regarding Olatunji’s whereabouts.
“FirstNews reiterates its commitment to journalistic integrity and ethical reporting. As a reputable independent digital news network, we uphold the highest standards of professionalism and accountability,” Daniel Iworiso-Markson, publisher of FirstNews said.
“Our dedication to factual, authentic, and credible reporting remains unwavering, even in the face of adversity. We urge the military high command and security agencies to provide immediate clarity on Olatunji’s whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding his arrest.”
His wife, Abiodun Olatunji, has also called on authorities to release her husband, saying he was whisked away by officers who did not disclose where the journalist was being taken to.
This development is totally unbecoming of the authorities in Nigeria. By this act of crass harassment, these authorities are problematizing journalists for doing what they have the responsibility to do, which is to shine the light of accountability on all issues of public interest.
The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) condemns in no uncertain terms, the attempt by the authorities to gag press freedom in Nigeria and calls for the immediate release of Segun Olatunji.
