By Damilare Adeleye
The Nigeria Police Force has described reports claiming that Mr. Chike Ibezim, a brother of the owner of Reportera News, is illegally detained in its custody as malicious and false.
This is coming at the heel of reports that Chike was illegally detained in police custody after his young brother was arrested following a petition by Babatunde Raji Fashola, former minister of works and housing.
Recall that Babatunde Fashola, former minister and governor of Lagos state, had petitioned the DSS, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) over a false publication against him by Nnamdi Ibezim, the publisher of Reportera News.
Following his arrest, Chike had accused the Department of State Services (DSS) of abducting his younger brother at the behest of the former minister.
Meanwhile, the Police clarified that Mr. Chike is in lawful custody based on a court order, and his detention is in connection with a prima facie case of malicious publication, cyberbullying, and other related offences that were still under investigation by the Police.
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, offered this clarification in a statement released on Sunday.
He said, “The arrest and detention of be are carried out in strict adherence to legal procedures and respect for individual rights. In this case, a court order was obtained following a thorough investigation, which established an indictment on Mr Chike, who has given useful information and is assisting the Police in the course of their investigation.
“The NPF takes allegations of malicious publication and cyberbullying seriously due to their potential to cause harm, distress, and damage to the reputation of individuals, institutions, as well as posing great threats to national security and stability of our dear country. These actions can also have significant legal implications. It is the duty of the Nigeria Police Force to investigate such matters thoroughly and ensure that the rule of law is upheld.
“The Police would like to emphasize that our actions are driven by a commitment to upholding the law and protecting the rights and well-being of all citizens. We encourage responsible and lawful behaviour in all forms of communication, including online interactions, to maintain a harmonious and safe society.”