Sowore demands release of detained FIJ journalist Ojukwu

African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has called for the immediate release of Foundation for Investigative Journalism reporter Daniel Ojukwu, who was detained at the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja. In a statement posted on his X account, Sowore expressed his concern over the detention of journalists and the lengthy proceedings in court. He criticized the Federal High Court's decision to remand Ojukwu until December 1, 2026, for a scheduled bail hearing.

Ojukwu is accused of 12 counts of cybercrime, including cyberstalking, related to reports published by FIJ alleging financial impropriety by former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari's Special Assistant on Sustainable Development Goals, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire. The charges, filed on December 19, 2024, were brought by former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. Ojukwu and FIJ founder Fisayo Soyombo have pleaded not guilty to the allegations.

Sowore described the prolonged detention as "punishment before conviction" and highlighted the undermining of the constitutional presumption of innocence and the right to personal liberty. He urged for the protection of journalists and a reconsideration of the handling of cybercrime cases by the courts and the Nigeria Police Force's National Cybercrime Centre.