The Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has demanded the immediate release of journalist Stanley Ugagbe, who was arrested by security operatives after his news platform, Secret Reporters, published an investigative report.Ugagbe was taken into custody from his Abuja residence by unidentified men, with reports suggesting Nigeria Police Force officers were involved.

The IPI statement expressed deep concern over the detention, highlighting that Ugagbe was denied access to his family, legal representatives, and employer, violating constitutional rights.

The institute criticized the use of security agencies to suppress journalistic work, warning that such actions undermine press freedom and democratic principles.

IPI Nigeria called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct security agencies to disclose the legal basis for the arrest, grant Ugagbe access to his lawyers, and ensure his rights are upheld.

The incident underscores growing tensions between media freedom and security operations in Nigeria, with the IPI emphasizing that journalism is not a crime and that arrests should only occur through lawful processes.

The statement also urged security leaders to respect legal frameworks and avoid interfering in civil matters, stressing the importance of a free press in democracy.