Outrage is spreading nationwide as investigative journalist and human-rights crusader Fejiro Oliver remains in police custody for more than 48 hours without charge or disclosure of his whereabouts.
Oliver was reportedly seized in Abuja by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department and flown to Asaba, Delta State, on the alleged orders of powerful political figures. Family members and colleagues say they have been denied access to him and have received no formal explanation for his arrest.
Civil-society leaders, media advocates, and ordinary Nigerians are calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to act immediately. They point to his own legacy as a fearless pro-democracy activist who resisted military repression and defended free expression.
“The silence from the Presidency is unacceptable,” a coalition of rights groups declared. “A government built on democratic ideals cannot allow secret detentions of journalists.”
Legal experts warn that holding a citizen without charge or access to counsel violates Nigeria’s Constitution and international human-rights obligations. Advocacy organizations insist that Oliver be released unconditionally or presented in court without delay.
Time is critical. Every hour of inaction deepens concerns that state power is being used to intimidate the press and silence dissent.
President Tinubu must speak out and direct the Inspector-General of Police to end this unlawful detention now.