*He Has Case To Answer
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has said that the detention of the publisher of Reportera, Chike Ibezim is legal, and in line with court order.
The statement was contained in a statement by the force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi on Sunday.
His arrest was following a petition by the former Minister of Works, Babatunde Fashola.
On August 10, Chike was reportedly arrested by some police officers in Abuja, the country’s capital.
Fashola, in a petition against the Ibezim, said that in August, the platform published a report claiming that he was drafting the presidential election tribunal verdict that would be handed to judges.
Meanwhile, the police has noted the allegations of malicious publication and cyberbullying are serious because they can 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.
The statement reads, “The Nigeria Police Force wishes to address recent concerns and malicious reports surrounding the detention of Mr. Chike Ibezim. Contrary to speculations, we affirm 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 are still under investigation by the Police. The arrest and detention of individuals 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,” the statement said.
