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July 30, 2025 – Nigeria –
Francess Olisa Ogbonnaya, a Nigerian journalist and political analyst, has been detained after refusing to produce a jingle aimed at discrediting Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan. The request came from Sandra Chidinma Duru, known as “Prof Mgbeke,” who is politically connected to Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Ogbonnaya was asked to create a campaign jingle portraying the senator negatively, which she fulfilled professionally. Duru later demanded a revised, more defamatory version and a refund after declaring the initial work insufficiently damaging.
Despite a restraining order issued by a High Court in Abia State protecting her from arrest, Ogbonnaya was arrested by police, accused of defamation and remanded in Keffi Prison following a lower court’s intervention in Abuja. She spent several nights in detention, was transferred between cities, and denied access to her phone and legal counsel. Family members report she was questioned, threatened, and pressured to retract statements made in a recent interview.
Ogbonnaya has since filed legal action against Duru, the police officials involved, and other authorities seeking ₦500 million in damages for unlawful arrest, threats, and breach of privacy. A federal court has granted an interim injunction preventing any further detention or disclosure of private content. Despite court protections, authorities attempted further arrests, prompting civil society outrage.
This case has raised alarm among press freedom groups and journalist unions, which have condemned the harassment and judicial infractions. Advocates argue Ogbonnaya was targeted for refusing to participate in disinformation and defamation. They emphasize that enforcing political demands through state power violates constitutional protections for the media and freedom of expression.
Ogbonnaya’s brave refusal and subsequent detention highlight growing threats facing independent journalists in Nigeria. As she continues her legal challenge, press advocates are demanding full investigations, accountability for officials involved, and stronger legal safeguards for journalists who resist unethical and politically motivated pressures.
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