Media Groups Protest Prosecution of Journalist Ojukwu

Sixteen media and civil society organizations have condemned the prosecution and remand of investigative journalist Daniel Ojukwu, who works with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ). He was remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre, Abuja, by the Federal High Court until 1 December 2026, facing a 12-count charge related to his investigative reports published in 2023 and 2024.

These reports questioned payments of N147.1 million and N47.5 million for classroom construction projects and the functionality of solar installations. Ojukwu pleaded not guilty to all charges, and his counsel stated he had complied with previous bail conditions.

The organizations expressed concern over the court's refusal to allow him to remain on bail pending the hearing of his application. They described the prosecution as an escalation in using criminal proceedings against journalists and emphasized the importance of public officials explaining their spending decisions.

They demanded Ojukwu's immediate release and bail pending the determination of the charges.