By Ejiro Umukoro

LightRay! Media stands in solidarity with Nigerian journalists who courageously report on critical issues. We reaffirm our commitment to supporting a free and independent press in Nigeria, promoting investigative journalism that sheds light on important stories and fosters accountability.

As the spate against journalists is on the rise in Nigeria, the arrest of investigative journalist and pioneer Editor of BBC Pidgin Service, Adejuwon Soyinka, who was briefly detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) at Murtala Muhammad International Airport in Lagos on August 25, 2024, upon his return from the UK raises another layer of concern on the rights of journalists.

Following intervention by the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria, Soyinka was released, but his passport remains withheld, sparking concerns about potential rights violations and the escalating intimidation of journalists in Nigeria.

We express deep concern over the ongoing erosion of press freedom in Nigeria. This year, several journalists have faced harassment, highlighting a troubling trend, including both female and male journalists: Kasarahchi Aniagolu, Segun Olatunji, Daniel Ojukwu, and
Jamil Mabai.

LightRay! Media and other press freedom advocates will continue monitoring the situation, promoting a safe and enabling environment for journalists.

We encourage the Nigerian government to uphold its constitutional obligations and international human rights commitments, ensuring a safe and enabling environment for journalists to perform their vital role.

1. Return Soyinka’s passport
2. Respect journalists’ rights
3. Protect press freedom

#PressFreedom #JournalistRights #Nigeria

LightRay! Media will continue to monitor developments and advocate for the protection of journalists’ rights across West Africa, promoting a culture of transparency and accountability.

Lady Ejiro Umukoro
Executive Director
LightRay! Media(LR!M)