News
Unraveling the Nexus of Power: NGIJ Challenges PSFU’s Narrative on Journalists’ Arrest
In response to the recent press release by the Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU), Lagos, signed by SP Eyitayo Johnson regarding the arrest and arraignment of four journalists for alleged cyberstalking and attempted extortion of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has said that it is constrained to set the record straight on several key points. googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"> [adrotate banner="51"]
In a statement jointly signed by the President and the Vice President Administration and Strategic Communications, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan and Oyewale Oyelola respectively, on Thursday, and made available to Journalists in Abuja, the Guild noted that without joining issues with the parties involved, the Police overstepped its boundaries under the law by issuing a statement that clearly pronounced the defendants guilty as charged.
The statement read in parts: “NGIJ view with dismay the desperate media war the PSFU seems to be waging against four journalists arrested by the unit at on the orders of Guaranty Trust Bank Plc (GTBank).
“The Guild is shocked at the tone of the press release signed by SP Eyitayo Johnson and made available to the media on Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024, when the Journalists have been arraigned in court and remanded at Ikoyi Prison until 4th of October, 2024.
“The tone of the press release is not only assertive and judgmental but smacks of a desperate attempt of giving a dog a bad name to hang it.
“Again, it seems PSFU wants to be a judge in its own case when they affirmed in the said press release that “having established contact with a staff member of the PR department of the bank, and despite being informed that the story in false; (sic) resorted to economic blackmail by demanding for financial compensation before the false publication could be pulled down.”
“One would think that a reputable unit like the PSFU would be professional enough to allow the Court determined this case based on its merits (if any). This is because to the best of our knowledge, whether or not the arrested journalists demanded for financial compensation before pulling down the stories is a matter to be determined by the court.
“In setting the record straight: First and foremost, it is crucial to highlight that the four journalists in question were arraigned in court on Friday, 27th of September, 2024, before Hon. Justice Ayokunle Faji and are scheduled for trial from the 4th of October, 2024. This demonstrates that due legal process is already ongoing and the matter is being handled in a transparent and accountable manner by a court of law. Therefore, for PSFU to start issuing a press release and sending pictures of the Journalists to the media on the 2nd of October, even when their arraignment was widely reported by major newspapers on the 28th and 29th of September, 2024 has left a big question mark as to what the special interests of the Police in the matter is.
“Furthermore, it has come to light that the House of Representatives has received a petition regarding the subject matter in the case, with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen granting approval for a thorough probe of the allegations against the GTBank. This indicates that the issue has broader implications and is being taken seriously at a higher legislative level.
“GTBANK itself had before an investigative panel at the National Assembly in September confirmed that the bank did not remit (Value Added Tax (VAT) to the Federal Government for an extended period of 8 years. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Nigeria’s House of Representatives then ordered the GTBank to calculate the VAT owed on commissions earned through the Remita platform between 2015 and 2022 to the Federal Government.
“This fraudulent act was part of the content of the original report by the defendants, leading to their arrests. This revelation, without prejudice to the ongoing case in court, underscores the need for thorough investigation and scrutiny of the bank’s practices, lending credibility to the four accused journalists’ publications.
“Additionally, concerns have been raised about the fundamental human rights of the journalists as they were kept in custody by the Police for up to a week before they were charged to court. Moreso, the nature of the arrest of the Journalists in question in a ‘Gestapo-style’ without their arrests duly registered their with the local authorities in Ilorin and Abeokuta, remains a big question on the professionalism of the PSFU Police. This also raises questions about the fairness and legality of their detention and the nature of the arrest, especially considering the sensitive nature of press freedom globally.
“It is evident that the Police’s actions in this case may indicate an attempt to suppress freedom of the press and stifle truthful reportage, particularly when considering the influence of powerful individuals and entity involved, like the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, Mr Segun Agbaje.
“Without any doubt, the role of the police should be to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of individuals, including journalists, without bias but in this case, adhering to these noble duties are doubtful.
“We therefore strongly condemn position taken by the Police in the allegations made against our four colleagues, in which they have taken a NOT GUILTY plea before the Federal High Court, Ikoyi.
“It’s disturbing to see the police seemingly working to justify their actions, rather than upholding the principles of democracy and protecting the rights of journalists to report the truth by the obvious show of bias by the PSFU.
“The allegations appear to be a blatant attempt to continue to harass, intimidate, and silence our colleagues and stifle press freedom in efforts to protect the rich and the influential in the society.
“The NGIJ therefore stand in solidarity with rule of law and our colleagues as well as demands that their rights be respected, as we will continue to report the truth, without fear or favour, and hold those in power accountable for their actions in public interest.
“We therefore call on Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, the Chairman Police Service Commission, PSC, democratic institutions, the National Assembly, human rights organizations, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and the international community to condemn the position of the PSFU as the prosecutor and the judge in the matter before the court”, the statement concluded.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
Latest entries
PoliticsApril 23, 2026Yunusa Charges Team to intensify coordination, discipline as YMK Nigeria Steps on PRP Platform for 2027 Presidential Election
PoliticsApril 20, 2026Kogi Central APC Stakeholders Kick Against Imposition of Unpopular Candidate Endorse Obaro
Steel and MineApril 19, 2026Nigeria Deepen Bilateral Ties With India to Develop the Steel and Mines Industry
NewsApril 6, 2026Easter: Nigeria Must Do Better, NGIJ Warns Amid Rising Insecurity
News
Easter: Nigeria Must Do Better, NGIJ Warns Amid Rising Insecurity
By AbdulRahman Obaje
The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has issued a strongly worded Easter message, condemning worsening insecurity and demanding urgent action from security chiefs. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); [adrotate banner="51"]
In a statement signed by its National President, Abdulrahman Aliagan, and National Secretary, Rowland Olonishuwa, the Guild said Nigeria must confront its security failures without delay.
The Guild congratulated Christians across Nigeria and the world on the Easter celebration, noting that the season crowns weeks of sacrifice, reflection, and spiritual renewal.
It also acknowledged that Muslims recently concluded Ramadan and celebrated Eid al-Fitr, describing both religious observances as powerful symbols of discipline and devotion.
NGIJ said the overlapping spiritual journeys of Christians and Muslims highlight a shared national lesson on unity and peaceful coexistence.
However, the Guild warned that the current security reality contradicts those values, as many communities continue to live in utter dread.
It described the recent killings in Jos as a grim reminder of deep cracks within the nation’s security architecture pointing out that the violence goes beyond headlines, insisting that it reflects systemic failure.
NGIJ condemned the bloodshed in the strongest terms possible and criticised what it called the growing helplessness of authorities. It argued that routine condemnations and post-attack visits by the relevant authorities saddled with the responsibility of securing lives and properties no longer satisfy public expectations.
The statement stressed that repeated promises without visible results only deepen public frustration and grief.
NGIJ maintained that every Nigerian deserves safety at home, in places of worship, and in public spaces while stressing that government must treat that responsibility as a non-negotiable duty.
The Guild urged security chiefs to respond with urgency, intelligence, and clear results. It insisted that those unable to guarantee safety should step aside for more capable leadership.
NGIJ also clarified that its position reflects a moral duty rather than political bias while noting that Easter symbolises sacrifice, accountability, and renewal, adding that real change requires courage and action.
It warned Nigerians against yielding to fear or division despite the tense climate and encouraged citizens to protect unity and resist forces that thrive on chaos.
The Guild reaffirmed its commitment to investigative journalism, promising to pursue truth and hold power accountable. It also pledged to amplify the voices of victims often ignored in national discourse.
NGIJ concluded that hope must translate into action, urging the nation to confront its challenges with urgency.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
Latest entries
- PoliticsApril 23, 2026Yunusa Charges Team to intensify coordination, discipline as YMK Nigeria Steps on PRP Platform for 2027 Presidential Election
- PoliticsApril 20, 2026Kogi Central APC Stakeholders Kick Against Imposition of Unpopular Candidate Endorse Obaro
- Steel and MineApril 19, 2026Nigeria Deepen Bilateral Ties With India to Develop the Steel and Mines Industry
- NewsApril 6, 2026Easter: Nigeria Must Do Better, NGIJ Warns Amid Rising Insecurity
Legislative
NGIJ Targets Stronger Democracy Through Partnership with NILDS
By AbdulRahman Obaje
The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has sought a strategic partnership with the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) to enhance legislative reporting, strengthen democratic accountability, and promote evidence-based journalism in Nigeria. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); [adrotate banner="51"]
The proposal was made during a courtesy visit by the NGIJ delegation, led by its President, Mallam Abdulrahman Aliagan, to the Institute’s headquarters in Abuja.
The Director-General of NILDS, Professor Abubakar O. Suleiman, was represented at the meeting by the Director of Legal Services, Professor Ibrahim Danwanka. Also in attendance were the Special Adviser to the DG on Media, Mr. Muhammad Abdulkadir and the Director of Information, Mr. Emmanuel Atakpo.
Speaking during the visit, Aliagan described the engagement as a strategic step toward building synergy between investigative journalism and legislative research institutions. He commended the leadership of Professor Suleiman for transforming NILDS into a leading centre for legislative studies and democratic governance in Africa.
“This visit is not merely ceremonial—it is deeply strategic. NGIJ and NILDS share a common vision of strengthening democracy, promoting accountability, and deepening good governance in Nigeria,” Aliagan said.
He explained that while NILDS advances democratic governance through research and legislative capacity development, NGIJ complements these efforts through investigative journalism and public-interest reporting.
Aliagan highlighted the Guild’s activities across the country, particularly its Governance Assessment Visits conducted in Kogi, Bayelsa, Ondo, Kwara, Osun, and Kaduna states, noting that such engagements have improved public discourse and strengthened accountability at the subnational level.
“Our mission is to promote ethical investigative journalism, strengthen transparency in governance, and build capacity for data-driven reporting that connects citizens with democratic institutions,” he said.
The NGIJ President also proposed collaboration in areas such as training on legislative processes, joint research and publications, policy dialogues, data sharing, and fellowship programmes for journalists and researchers.
He further informed the Institute of the Guild’s plan to host the Dele Giwa Memorial Annual Lecture on Investigative Journalism in June as part of activities marking Democracy Day. The Guild requested that Professor Suleiman serve as keynote speaker and sought approval to use NILDS’ auditorium for the event.
“We are confident that your presence and intellectual contribution will greatly enrich the discourse and lend national significance to the event,” Aliagan added.
Responding on behalf of the Director-General, Professor Danwanka welcomed the proposal and described the initiative as timely and beneficial to national development. He commended NGIJ for its commitment to accountability journalism and its recognition of the Institute’s growing impact.
“If there is any institution journalists need to collaborate with, it is NILDS.
Legislative reporting requires specialised knowledge that many journalists currently lack,” Danwanka said.
He explained that NILDS was established by an Act of Parliament in 2011 and later expanded in 2017 to include broader responsibilities covering democratic institutions and civil society organisations.
According to him, the Institute has grown significantly under Professor Suleiman’s leadership, expanding from four departments to eleven, with increased staff strength and wider national, regional, and continental visibility.
Danwanka noted that NILDS currently provides research and capacity-building support not only to Nigeria’s legislature but also to parliaments across West Africa and other parts of the continent, including Kenya, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Ghana, and Togo.
“Legislature is a specialised field. Even experts from other disciplines must acquire knowledge of its processes to report it accurately. That is where NILDS comes in,” he said.
He assured the NGIJ delegation that all requests presented during the visit, including collaboration proposals, the use of the Institute’s facilities, and the invitation to the DG would be communicated for necessary action.
Danwanka also acknowledged NGIJ’s commendation of the appointment of Mr. Abdulkadir as Special Adviser on Media, describing the recognition as thoughtful and well-deserved.
The meeting ended with both parties expressing optimism about establishing a formal framework for collaboration, with a shared commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and improving governance through knowledge-driven journalism.
“This engagement marks the beginning of a sustainable partnership that will advance legislative excellence and investigative journalism in Nigeria,” Danwanka said.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
Latest entries
- PoliticsApril 23, 2026Yunusa Charges Team to intensify coordination, discipline as YMK Nigeria Steps on PRP Platform for 2027 Presidential Election
- PoliticsApril 20, 2026Kogi Central APC Stakeholders Kick Against Imposition of Unpopular Candidate Endorse Obaro
- Steel and MineApril 19, 2026Nigeria Deepen Bilateral Ties With India to Develop the Steel and Mines Industry
- NewsApril 6, 2026Easter: Nigeria Must Do Better, NGIJ Warns Amid Rising Insecurity
News
NGIJ urges unity, cautions politicians against divisive rhetoric ahead of 2027
The Nigeria Guild of Investigative Journalism (NGIJ) has called on Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence and warned political actors against exploiting religious and ethnic divisions as the country gradually approaches the 2027 general elections. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); js"> [adrotate banner="51"]
In a statement issued on Friday to mark the 2026 Eid al-Fitr celebration, and jointly signed by its National President, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, and National Secretary, Rowland Olonishuwa, the Guild congratulated Muslim faithful on the successful completion of Ramadan.
The Guild noted that this year’s Ramadan coincided with the Christian Lenten season, describing the alignment as a “rare and powerful symbolism” that underscores shared values across faiths.
According to the statement, both periods called for reflection, sacrifice, discipline, and compassion, stressing that such common ideals should serve as a foundation for national unity.
“For weeks, across mosques and churches, Nigerians prayed, fasted, gave to the needy, and sought a better version of themselves. If we can endure hardship together in pursuit of spiritual growth, then we can certainly live together in peace,” the Guild said.
However, NGIJ expressed concern over rising tensions in the country, warning that differences are increasingly being weaponised, particularly along religious and ethnic lines.
The Guild emphasised that the lessons of Ramadan and Lent should not end with celebrations but must be reflected in citizens’ daily conduct, urging Nigerians to embrace patience, empathy, and truth in their interactions.
While addressing the political class, the organisation cautioned against early signs of divisive campaigning ahead of the 2027 elections, including the spread of misinformation and fear-based rhetoric.
“We are already seeing early signs of the familiar playbook, divisive rhetoric, calculated misinformation, and appeals to fear rather than reason. That path is dangerous and ultimately destructive,” the statement read.
NGIJ urged politicians, political parties, and aspirants to focus on issue-based campaigns, particularly on the economy, security, and governance, rather than resorting to identity politics.
It warned that power gained through division could undermine national stability, stressing that Nigeria cannot afford another election cycle that deepens societal fractures.
The Guild also reaffirmed its commitment to accountability and responsible journalism, pledging to continue challenging false narratives and exposing misinformation.
“A peaceful and informed society requires citizens who think critically and reject manipulation,” it added.
The statement concluded by describing Eid al-Fitr as not only a moment of celebration but also a test of collective responsibility, urging Nigerians to choose unity over division in the interest of national progress.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
Latest entries
- PoliticsApril 23, 2026Yunusa Charges Team to intensify coordination, discipline as YMK Nigeria Steps on PRP Platform for 2027 Presidential Election
- PoliticsApril 20, 2026Kogi Central APC Stakeholders Kick Against Imposition of Unpopular Candidate Endorse Obaro
- Steel and MineApril 19, 2026Nigeria Deepen Bilateral Ties With India to Develop the Steel and Mines Industry
- NewsApril 6, 2026Easter: Nigeria Must Do Better, NGIJ Warns Amid Rising Insecurity