In a scathing statement issued to journalists today, human rights advocacy group Global Rights has accused a leading Nigerian new generation bank of undermining press freedom by allegedly orchestrating the prolonged detention of four journalists.
The organization described the detention as a blatant abuse of the criminal justice system aimed at silencing dissenting voices.
The detained journalists, Olurotimi Olawale, Precious Eze Chukwunonso, Roland Olonishuwa, and Seun Odunlami, have reportedly been held since September 2024.
Their arrest, according to Global Rights, is believed to be linked to investigative reporting on sensitive and controversial topics.
Global Rights’ Executive Director, Abiodun Baiyewu, criticized the bank for what she called a “disturbing misuse of legal power,” accusing it of weaponizing the law to intimidate members of the press.
“This shameful saga demonstrates a disturbing misuse of legal power to attack members of the Fourth Estate for practicing their profession,” Baiyewu said.
The organization emphasized that the detention of the journalists violates fundamental rights guaranteed under Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, particularly Sections 22 and 39, which protect press freedom and the right to free expression.
Global Rights called for the immediate release of the detained journalists and urged the judiciary to dismiss cases that infringe on constitutionally protected freedoms.
It also demanded that the National Assembly repeal outdated laws criminalizing defamation, arguing that such matters should be limited to civil litigation.
“These outdated laws and their misuse highlight an alarming trend where powerful institutions exploit legal systems to stifle dissent and intimidate critics,” Baiyewu stated.
The advocacy group warned authorities against pursuing cases driven by personal vendettas or designed to suppress free speech. It also urged Nigerians to resist what it termed an erosion of democratic principles.
“Nigeria must recommit to democracy by upholding the rights of journalists and ensuring a free and vibrant press,” the statement concluded.
The case has sparked a wider debate on press freedom in Nigeria, with many calling for systemic reforms to protect journalists from legal intimidation.