By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Online Editor of Kogi Reports, Mr. Opeyemi Owoeye, has been detained by operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) following a publication reportedly linked to a complaint involving a federal lawmaker.
Sources said Owoeye was arrested on June 11, 2026, after Kogi Reports published a story alleging that the member representing Yagba Federal Constituency, Hon. Leke Abejide, sought to influence the outcome of the APC Kogi West Senatorial Primary through the Office of the Chief of Staff to the President.
According to the sources, the journalist’s arrest followed complaints arising from the publication. However, the NSCDC had not, as of the time of filing this report, issued an official statement explaining the circumstances of the arrest or the legal basis for the detention.
The sources further alleged that efforts to secure Owoeye’s release on bail had yet to yield results, with the journalist remaining in custody.
They also claimed that this was not the first time the lawmaker had been accused of using security agencies against political associates and critics. However, no official records were immediately available to independently verify the allegation.
Attempts to obtain comments from Hon. Abejide and officials of the NSCDC were unsuccessful as of press time.
The development has attracted attention among media stakeholders and advocates of press freedom, who have called for transparency and adherence to due process in matters involving journalists and media organisations.
Observers say further clarification from the NSCDC and other relevant authorities will be necessary to address concerns surrounding the detention.
