By Ochiaka Ugwu
The Strategic diplomatic intervention by the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria Chapter successfully brought an end to the detention of journalist Zainab Sodiq, who was taken into custody by the Department of State Services (DSS) for possessing an unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) without a mandatory End-User Certificate (EUC).
Ms. Sodiq regained her freedom at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 10, when she was officially released to the leadership of the media institute following intensive behind-the-scenes engagements with security top brass.
The journalist’s ordeal began on Monday, July 6, 2026, when airport security operatives intercepted her at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos as she prepared to travel with the device.
While she was allowed to board her flight to Abuja that day, she was directed to report to the DSS Headquarters on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, where she was subsequently detained for failing to produce the clearance certificate required for such technology.
Details of how the resolution was brokered were contained in a statement issued in Abuja on Saturday by IPI Nigeria Secretary, Ahmed Shekarau, confirming the swift and successful mediation by the press vanguard.
Reacting to the breakthrough, the President of IPI Nigeria, Musikilu Mojeed, commended the DSS for its willingness to engage constructively with the media body to resolve the standoff.
However, he maintained that the enforcement of national security regulations must not come at the expense of fundamental media rights.
“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,” Mojeed stated.
The IPI leadership emphasized that while regulations governing specialized equipment like drones must be respected, security agencies and the press must foster mutual dialogue.
This approach, Mojeed noted, ensures that legitimate national security laws are enforced without creating a chilling effect on independent journalism or putting field reporters at risk.
The institute expressed appreciation to all civic organizations and individuals who rallied support during the detention, reaffirming its dedication to defending press freedom within the boundaries of local laws and human rights frameworks.
