DSS Frees Sowore’s Media Aide Zainab Sadiq After Days in Custody

Nigerian journalist and media aide to African Action Congress (AAC) 2027 presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, Zainab Sadiq, has regained her freedom after being detained by the Department of State Services (DSS).

Sadiq had been held by the DSS over allegations relating to the possession of a drone without the required authorisation.

The security agency had earlier confirmed that she was in its custody at the DSS National Headquarters in Abuja as part of an ongoing investigation.

According to a statement issued on July 9 by the DSS Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, Sadiq was arrested on July 6 at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos while attempting to travel to Abuja with an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV).

The DSS stated that she was unable to present an End User Certificate (EUC), a mandatory document issued under regulations by the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) for the acquisition and operation of drones in Nigeria.

Announcing her release on Friday through his verified 𝕏 account, Sowore expressed appreciation to Nigerians who spoke out against her detention, attributing her freedom to sustained public pressure and advocacy.

He wrote: “Ms. Zainab Sadiq is finally free from the grip of repression!

“To everyone who raised their voice, made calls, demanded justice, and stood firmly against repression: Thank you.

“When people of conscience unite and stand against injustice, repression can be defeated. Welcome back, Zainab.”

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