By: Harry Archie
The Nigeria Union of Journalists has called for the immediate release of journalist Stanley Ugagbe, condemning his alleged arrest and continued detention by unidentified security operatives.
In a statement issued on Thursday, July 3, 2026, and signed by the Council’s Secretary, Jide Oyekunle, the union described the incident as disturbing, noting that no official explanation has been given regarding the journalist’s whereabouts, the allegations against him, or the legal basis for his detention.
According to the statement, Mr. Ugagbe, a reporter with SecretReporters, was reportedly arrested on the evening of Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at his residence in Jikwoyi Phase II.
The union said four armed men dressed in plain clothes allegedly arrived at his home shortly after he returned from work and took him to an unknown location.
It added that one of the operatives was dressed in a T-shirt and trousers, while another carried an assault rifle.
The statement further alleged that the operatives confiscated the journalist’s mobile phone and laptop before taking him away in an unmarked black Mitsubishi Pajero SUV with tinted windows.
The NUJ said it had contacted several security agencies to determine whether Mr. Ugagbe was in their custody, but all the agencies approached denied having him or any knowledge of his whereabouts.
The union called on the relevant security agencies to reveal the identity of the operatives involved, explain the reasons for the journalist’s arrest, grant him immediate access to his family and legal representatives, and either charge him before a competent court if there is a lawful case against him or release him without delay.
Reaffirming its commitment to press freedom, the NUJ said it would continue to monitor the situation and support efforts to ensure the safe release of Mr. Ugagbe.(Empirical Magazine)
