Police Release Arrested Journalist

A reporter with Secret Reporters, Stanley Ugagbe, has been released from police custody following the intervention of the International Press Institute Nigeria (IPI).

NEWSNGR understands that Ugagbe was released to the President of IPI Nigeria, Musikilu Mojeed, at about 7.30pm on Monday, July 6, 2026.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Legal Adviser of IPI Nigeria, Tobi Soniyi.

Although the journalist was granted bail, IPI said police investigations into allegations of espionage, cyberstalking and computer-related offences were still ongoing.

Ugagbe was reportedly arrested at his residence in Abuja last Wednesday by security operatives.

Following reports of his arrest, IPI Nigeria said it began efforts to establish his whereabouts and identify the security agency responsible for his detention.

The institute later confirmed that he was being held at the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre in Abuja.

IPI said its leadership engaged the Police Headquarters and secured Ugagbe’s release after sustained representations and negotiations.

The institute appreciated the cooperation of the police authorities and said it would continue to monitor the case closely.

IPI Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, promoting journalists’ safety and ensuring that media professionals carry out their constitutional duties without intimidation or unlawful interference.