NDLEA Refutes Torture Claims by Journalist Prince Alobi

The Cross River State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has denied allegations of harassment and torture against Prince Alobi, a broadcast journalist with Canaan City FM 99.5. The incident occurred on October 25 while Alobi was covering a drug enforcement operation at Parliamentary Extension in Calabar.

Kabiru Abdullahi, the Assistant Commander of Narcotics, stated that Alobi was caught in a mob attack on NDLEA officers and was taken for screening, not torture. Abdullahi emphasized the agency's cordial relationship with the media and noted that Alobi identified himself as a journalist only after arriving at the NDLEA office.

In contrast, Alobi recounted being assaulted, stating he was slapped, hit with a gun butt, and had his phones destroyed. He reported that the incident has adversely affected his health and professional duties, and he is seeking justice, asserting his rights under the 1999 Constitution.