CPA Demands Immediate Release Of Detained Journalist, Fejiro Oliver

…Accuses Delta Police of Abuse of Power and Assault on Press Freedom

The Centre for Public Accountability (CPA) has condemned in strong terms the continued detention of Delta-born journalist and publisher of Secret Reporters, Tega Oghenedoro, popularly known as Fejiro Oliver, by the Delta State Police Command, describing the act as a flagrant disregard for the rule of law and an affront to democratic principles.

In a press statement made available to journalists on Friday, and signed by its Executive Director, Olufemi Lawson, the CPA decried Fejiro’s illegal detention, now over 16 days, following his arrest on September 18, 2025, at his Abuja office and subsequent transfer to Asaba, Delta State. The group said the arrest followed a petition allegedly orchestrated by the Governor of Delta State, describing the development as “a dangerous precedent and an attempt to silence critical voices in the media space.”

According to the statement, the Centre warned that the actions of the Delta State Police Command “reek of political intimidation” and represent “a calculated attempt to undermine the freedom and dignity of a citizen who has not been convicted by any court of competent jurisdiction in Nigeria.”

“We strongly oppose the growing tendency of politically exposed persons to manipulate state institutions for personal vendetta,” the statement read. “The Nigeria Police must never be reduced to a tool of persecution against perceived political opponents or dissenting voices.”

The CPA further called on the Inspector General of Police to immediately intervene in the matter by ordering Fejiro’s unconditional release or, if any credible allegations exist, arraign him before a competent court in line with the constitutionally guaranteed right to fair hearing.

“Any continued detention of Mr. Fejiro Oliver without trial constitutes a grave violation of his fundamental human rights,” CPA stated. “We will not tolerate any assault on press freedom or free speech in Nigeria. The right to hold opinions and to publish without fear is the cornerstone of democracy.”

The Centre reaffirmed its commitment to defending journalists, activists, and citizens against state intimidation, warning that it will mobilize civil society allies and the international community should the unlawful detention persist.