The Nigeria Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) on Monday, July 6, 2026 announced the release of Stanley Ugagbe, a reporter with Secret Reporters, an online news platform from the custody of the Nigeria Police.
The release of Ugagbe, who was reportedly arrested from his residence in Abuja last Wednesday by security operatives followed the intervention of IPI Nigeria.
Ugagbe was accordingly released to the President of IPI Nigeria, Mr Musikilu Mojeed, at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Monday, 6 July 2026.
A statement by Mr. Tobi Soniyi, Legal Adviser of IPI Nigeria explained that although Ugagbe has been granted bail, the police investigations into allegations of espionage, cyberstalking and computer-related offences are said to be continuing.
Upon receiving the report of the arrest of Ugagbe last Wednesday, IPI Nigeria immediately commenced efforts to establish his whereabouts and determine the security agency responsible for his arrest and detention.
Following enquiries and engagements with relevant authorities, it was confirmed that Ugagbe was being held at the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre, Abuja.
Consequently, the leadership of IPI Nigeria subsequently engaged the Police Headquarters and, after sustained representations and intensive negotiations, secured the release of the detained journalist.
IPI Nigeria expressed appreciation for the cooperation of the police authorities in facilitating the release of Stanley Ugegbe, adding however, that it will continue to monitor the case closely.
The Institute emphasised that it remains committed to defending press freedom, promoting the safety of journalists, and ensuring that media professionals can carry out their constitutional responsibilities without intimidation or unlawful interference.
