DSS releases journalist carrying drone after IPI Nigeria's intervention

Journalist Zainab Sodiq has been released following her detention by the Department of State Services (DSS) in Nigeria over the possession of a drone. The Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) announced her release after intervening in the matter.

Ms. Sodiq was intercepted at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Monday, July 6, 2026, while preparing to travel with the drone. Although initially allowed to proceed to Abuja, she was subsequently directed to report to the DSS headquarters on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. There, she was detained for lacking the required End User Certificate for the drone.

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We are pleased that this matter has been resolved and that Ms Sodiq has regained her freedom. We appreciate the DSS for responding to our intervention and for facilitating her release.

Following IPI Nigeria's intervention, Ms. Sodiq was released to the organization's leadership on Friday evening, July 10, 2026. The President of IPI Nigeria, Musikilu Mojeed, expressed pleasure at her release and commended the DSS for their cooperation. He stressed the importance of balancing national security responsibilities with the constitutional rights of journalists.

IPI Nigeria reiterated its commitment to safeguarding press freedom through constructive dialogue with authorities, while acknowledging legitimate national security concerns. The organization also thanked all individuals and groups who supported efforts to secure Ms. Sodiq's release.

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While we recognise the responsibility of security agencies to enforce laws and regulations designed to protect national security, such responsibilities should always be discharged with due regard for the constitutional rights of journalists and other citizens. We encourage continued dialogue and mutual understanding between security agencies and the media to ensure that legitimate security concerns are addressed without unduly impeding press freedom or journalists carrying out their professional duties.