Post by Henry Emeka (@Emekus)

Urgent Call for Accountability, Press Freedom, and Protection of 240 million Nigerians Freedom of Speech & Protest

Your Excellency Mr. President, Opposition parties, independent candidates 240 million Nigerians are writing to express deep concern over the recent arrest and detention of Kogi Reports Editor, Mr. Opeyemi Owoeye, by personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). This action, as rightly condemned by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), represents a dangerous attack on press freedom and democratic governance in Nigeria.

Respectfully sir democracy cannot thrive where journalists are intimidated, detained, or punished for exposing corruption or reporting truthfully on matters of public interest. The continued harassment of media professionals in parts of North-Central Nigeria is a direct violation of constitutional rights and threatens the very foundation of free expression.

Beyond this troubling incident, millions of Nigerians are demanding urgent action on long-standing national issues:

The immediate rescue of all Nigerians kidnapped since 1999, including the children abducted in recent weeks.

Installation of CCTV cameras and surveillance drones across the 36 states and 774 LGAs to strengthen security and deter terrorism.

Police reform, including the abolition of abusive practices, mandatory use of body cameras, and the release of innocent Nigerians detained without evidence.

Addressing the root causes of boko haram, enabling Nigerian to return to their farms and restoring Nigeria’s food security.

Economic reforms that create jobs for millions of Nigerian youths and graduates.

Fulfillment of long-promised public services, including reliable electricity, affordable housing, functional hospitals, and accessible education.

Transparency and accountability from public officials, including responsible use of public funds and reduction of excessive government spending.

Nigerians at home and abroad are watching closely. International partners are observing as well. The world expects Nigeria—a nation of over 240 million Nigerian—to uphold democratic values, protect its citizens, and respect the rule of law.

We demand your office to:

Ensure the immediate release of Mr. Opeyemi Owoeye or charge him transparently in a competent court.

Guarantee the safety of journalists nationwide.

Provide clear updates on efforts to rescue kidnapped citizens.

Commit to meaningful reforms that restore public trust in government institutions.

Nigeria can do better. Nigerians deserve better. The time for decisive action is now.

Thank you for your attention to these urgent matters.

https://leadership.ng/nuj-flays-nscdcs-action-in-kogi/?utm_source=copilot.com

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