In a recent report by Sahara Reporters, Nigerian journalist Mr. Segun Olatunji shared his harrowing experience after being arrested and detained for 14 days by security agents allegedly affiliated with the federal government.
Mr. Olatunji, the General Editor of the online news platform First News, revealed that he was accused of terrorism simply for writing a story concerning the Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila.
During an interview with Laolu Akande on Channels Television, Mr. Olatunji recounted how he was pressured into writing an apology to the Chief of Staff, expressing remorse for his article. He revealed that the accusation of terrorism was levied against him during his detention.
In his words: "They asked me to write an apology to the Chief of Staff to the President that I’m sorry for writing the story and that I will no longer be a terrorist because they also accused me of terrorism."
Mr. Olatunji detailed allegations suggesting that the Chief of Staff attempted to acquire $30 billion in dubious circumstances.
Furthermore, Mr. Olatunji disclosed that during his detention, security agents interrogated him relentlessly, pressing for information regarding the identity and whereabouts of his source within the Presidency. Despite their efforts, Mr. Olatunji remained steadfast in protecting the confidentiality of his source.