Police to discipline officer after journalist’s controversial arrest
A senior reporter, Sodeeq Atanda, with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism, was controversially arrested by the Nigeria Police Force. The police reportedly detained his wife, Adenike, and their nine-month-old child as bait to lure him. The arrest and subsequent release of the family have sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns over police treatment of journalists. CSP Benjamin Hundeyin announced that the officer responsible will face sanctions.
What happened
- The Nigeria Police Force plans to sanction the officer heading the unit involved in the arrest of Sodeeq Atanda.
- Atanda’s wife and infant were allegedly detained in Ikorodu, Lagos, to lure him under false pretences.
- Atanda was handcuffed and taken to the Force Headquarters in Obalende, then released with his family shortly before midnight.
- The incident has drawn criticism from activists like Omoyele Sowore and sparked debate about press freedom in Nigeria.
- Police spokesperson Hundeyin stated that the Inspector-General of Police was angered by the incident and ordered immediate release and sanctions for the unit head.
