DSS Releases Journalist Adejuwon Soyinka, Retains Passport

The Regional Editor of The Conversation Africa and investigative journalist, Adejuwon Soyinka, has been released by the Department of State Services (DSS) after being detained at Muritala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. The incident occurred early Sunday morning, shortly after Soyinka's arrival from the United Kingdom on a Virgin Atlantic flight. According to a distress message sent by one of Soyinka’s friends, the journalist was arrested around 5:40 am, and no reason was provided for his detention. Soyinka was reportedly held incommunicado by the DSS, raising concerns about his safety and the motives behind his arrest.

The DSS spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, when contacted, stated that he was not aware of Soyinka’s arrest and therefore had no comments on the matter. This lack of information from the security agency only heightened the uncertainty surrounding the situation. However, in a later update, the same friend confirmed that Soyinka had been released from the DSS Ikoyi office. While the journalist is now free, the DSS has withheld his passport, leaving questions about his ability to travel and the ongoing investigation into his activities. The arrest and subsequent release of Soyinka have sparked discussions about press freedom and the rights of journalists in Nigeria. Detaining a journalist without explanation or communication raises significant concerns, particularly in a country where the press is expected to operate freely and without undue interference from government agencies.

Soyinka’s release has brought relief to his friends and colleagues, but the seizure of his passport by the DSS suggests that the matter is far from over. The situation highlights the delicate balance between national security and the freedom of the press, an issue that continues to be a point of contention in many parts of the world. As this story unfolds, it will be important to monitor how the Nigerian government and its security agencies handle cases involving journalists and ensure that their rights are protected in accordance with the law.