SSS releases journalist linked to Sowore from detention

Journalist Zainab Sodiq has been released from the custody of Nigeria's State Security Service (SSS), also known as DSS, after days of detention that drew criticism from rights groups and press freedom advocates. Activist Omoyele Sowore announced her freedom on Friday, attributing the release to sustained pressure from Nigerians, civil society organizations, and legal professionals.

Sowore expressed gratitude to human rights lawyer Femi Falana, International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria President Musikilu Mojeed, lawyer Deji Adeyanju, Amnesty International Nigeria, and members of the Take It Back Movement for their intervention. The SSS had previously defended Sodiq's detention, stating she was under investigation for allegedly transporting a drone without the required End User Certificate (EUC), a security clearance mandated by the Office of the National Security Adviser.

According to the SSS, Sodiq was intercepted at Lagos' Murtala Muhammed International Airport on July 6 while traveling to Abuja with an unmanned aerial vehicle. She reportedly admitted to not having the necessary documentation and was directed to report for further investigation. However, Sowore contested this account, asserting that the drone belonged to him and that Sodiq was targeted because she works as his journalist, covering his activities.

Sowore further alleged that Sodiq was traveling with his passport, which he needed to deposit in court as part of his bail conditions for an ongoing cybercrime and criminal defamation trial. He claimed the interception and detention were intended to hinder the perfection of his bail. The SSS has not publicly commented on Sodiq's release or the status of its investigation into the alleged drone permit violation.

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We have good news! Ms Zainab Sadiq is finally free from the grip of repression.