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DSS Releases Journalist As IPI Nigeria Intervenes 

 

By Omowumi Omotosho

 

 

 

The Department of State Security (DSS) has released Edna Ulaeto, a journalist from OrderPaper, following her arrest on October 18, 2024. Ulaeto’s release came after swift intervention from the Nigerian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI).

The journalist had been detained by the DSS after she inaccurately reported that DSS operatives had invaded the Nigerian National Assembly as part of an alleged plot to impeach Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The DSS stated that the report posed serious national security threats and caused both local and international embarrassment. According to the DSS, Ulaeto’s arrest aimed to uncover the rationale behind the misleading publication and identify the sources of the false information, which they believed was intended to destabilize the country.

In a statement, Legal Adviser and Head of IPI Nigeria’s Advocacy Committee, Tobi Soniyi acknowledged the DSS’s concerns while confirming Ulaeto’s release. “We are pleased to announce that, through our swift intervention, Edna Ulaeto was released the same day of her arrest,” said Soniyi. He added that while OrderPaper had issued an immediate retraction and apology for the erroneous report, “the damage done to the DSS and the country had already been significant.”

Soniyi emphasized the importance of journalistic integrity, stating, “We urge journalists to always verify information before publishing and refrain from sensationalism. Truthful reporting is crucial for a stable society.” He also acknowledged the DSS’s rationale for detaining Ulaeto, noting, “We understand DSS’ argument about the damage already done.”

The incident has raised concerns over the role of the media in national security and the balance between press freedom and responsible journalism. While Ulaeto has been released, the DSS’s actions have reignited discussions around the impact of misinformation and the importance of adhering to journalistic ethics.

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