SERAP demands release of detained FIJ journalist Ojukwu
AI Executive Briefing
Gemini Flash AI~45s readThe Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) is calling for the release of FIJ journalist Daniel Ojukwu, who has been remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre. Ojukwu is facing a 12-count charge of cyberstalking linked to investigative reports regarding the alleged mismanagement of public funds by a former presidential aide.
Context & Background
- ✦The case centers on investigative reports published by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) regarding expenditures by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals.
- ✦SERAP argues that the prosecution threatens media freedom and uses the Cybercrimes Act to intimidate journalists who scrutinize public expenditure.
Key Figures & Named Entities
•Daniel Ojukwu (Journalist) and Fisayo Soyombo (FIJ Founder) are the defendants in case FHC/ABJ/CR/486/2024.•Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (Former Senior Special Assistant to the President) is the official named in the reports involving alleged payments of N17.1m, N147.1m, and N47.5m.
Outlook & Next Steps
The Federal High Court has adjourned the hearing of Ojukwu's bail application until December 1, 2026.
Key Takeaways
AI Summary- SERAP has formally demanded that President Tinubu and the Attorney General secure the immediate release of FIJ journalist Daniel Ojukwu from Kuje Correctional Centre.
- Ojukwu faces a 12-count charge of cyberstalking and conspiracy related to investigative reports on public fund expenditures by a former presidential aide.
- The Federal High Court has remanded Ojukwu until December 1, 2026, pending the hearing of his bail application, despite his plea of not guilty.
Key Facts:May 2024: Daniel Ojukwu was previously detained for 10 days in May 2024 following reports on the same public official.November 7, 2023: The FIJ published an investigation alleging that N17.1m was paid to a restaurant to build classrooms in Lagos.December 1, 2026: The bail application hearing for the 12-count charge is scheduled for December 1, 2026.
Editorial Excerpt
SERAP has urged President Tinubu to secure the immediate release of FIJ journalist Daniel Ojukwu, who was remanded over a report on public funds.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Story
What are the specific charges brought against Daniel Ojukwu and Fisayo Soyombo?
They are charged with a 12-count indictment including conspiracy to commit cyberstalking and transmitting reports that allegedly placed former presidential aide Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire in fear of death, violence, or bodily harm.
Why did the court deny the request for Ojukwu to remain on administrative bail?
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik declined the request, noting that the charges had been served on the defendant long before the bail application was filed.
