IPI Nigeria Demands Immediate Release of Detained Journalist Stanley Ugagbe

The International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria has called for the immediate and unconditional release of journalist Stanley Ugagbe, who has been in detention for several days.

In a statement issued on Friday, the press freedom organisation described Ugagbe’s continued detention as unjustifiable and a violation of press freedom and the constitutional right to freedom of expression.

IPI Nigeria said the journalist was arrested over a report he published, which authorities claimed was critical of a high-ranking public official. The organisation argued that arresting and detaining a journalist for carrying out his professional duties sets a dangerous precedent and undermines democratic values.

The statement further noted that Ugagbe’s arrest and prolonged detention without charge or trial contravene both Nigerian law and international standards on freedom of the press.

IPI Nigeria urged the relevant security agencies and authorities to respect the rule of law and release the journalist without further delay. It also called on the Federal Government to ensure that journalists are allowed to carry out their duties without fear of harassment, intimidation, or arbitrary arrest.

The organisation emphasised that a free and independent press remains essential to good governance, accountability, and the deepening of democracy in Nigeria.

As of the time of this report, the authorities responsible for Ugagbe’s detention had not issued an official statement responding to IPI Nigeria’s demand.

The case has drawn concern from several media rights groups, who say it reflects a worrying pattern of increasing hostility toward journalists critical of those in power.