IPI Nigeria secures release of detained journalist

by · The Eagle Online

The Nigeria Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has announced that Stanley Ugagbe, a reporter with Secret Reporters, an online news platform, has been released from police custody following the Institute’s intervention.

Ugagbe was released to the President of IPI Nigeria, Musikilu Mojeed, at approximately 7:30pm on Monday, July 6, 2026.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Legal Adviser of the institute, Tobi Soniyi, on Monday, which further revealed that although Ugagbe has been granted bail, police investigations into allegations of espionage, cyberstalking, and computer-related offences are said to be continuing.

Ugagbe was reportedly arrested from his residence in Abuja last Wednesday by security operatives.

Immediately IPI Nigeria received reports of his arrest, the Institute commenced efforts to establish his whereabouts and determine the security agency responsible for his detention. 

Following enquiries and engagements with relevant authorities, it was confirmed that he was being held at the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre, Abuja.

The leadership of IPI Nigeria subsequently engaged the Police Headquarters and, after sustained representations and intensive negotiations, secured Ugagbe’s release.

IPI Nigeria said it appreciates the cooperation of the police authorities in facilitating his release and will continue to monitor the case closely. 

The Institute also said it remains committed to defending press freedom, promoting the safety of journalists, and ensuring that media professionals can carry out their constitutional responsibilities without intimidation or unlawful interference.

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