The Nigerian Police Force has abducted Lagos-based journalist Nurudeen Adenekan from his home in the middle of the night, sparking concerns about press freedom and the treatment of journalists in the country.
Adenekan, a lecturer and media consultant, was taken away by police operatives claiming to be from the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Alagbon, on allegations of cyberbullying.
According to Adenekan’s wife, the police arrived at his residence in Agege, Lagos, at night and broke into the home, whisking him away without providing a clear reason for the arrest.
This incident bears similarities to the arrest of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi in December last year, who was also apprehended by the Nigerian police following a petition alleging defamation.
The abduction of Adenekan has raised concerns about the safety and freedom of journalists in Nigeria.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has previously condemned the molestation of journalists by the police, emphasizing the importance of respecting the rights of journalists and protesters.
In August 2024, the NHRC called on the Inspector General of Police to investigate the molestation of journalists during the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest and take necessary steps to hold perpetrators accountable.
