DSS frees journalist detained over drone after IPI intervention
The Department of State Services (DSS) has released journalist Zainab Sodiq, who was detained by the secret police over the possession of a drone, following a successful intervention by the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria.
Ms. Sodiq was released to the leadership of the Institute at about 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026.
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She’s linked to African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore as a media aide.
The secretary of IPI Nigeria, Ahmed Shekarau, disclosed this in a press statement issued on Saturday in Abuja.
The Detention
According to the statement, the journalist was initially intercepted by security operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos on Monday, July 6, 2026, while preparing to travel with the drone.
Although she was permitted to proceed with her journey to Abuja that same day, she was directed to report to the DSS headquarters on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. Upon honoring the invitation, she was subsequently detained for possessing the device without the requisite End User Certificate.
IPI reacts, commends DSS
Reacting to the development, the President of IPI Nigeria, Musikilu Mojeed, welcomed Ms. Sodiq’s release and commended the DSS for its willingness to engage with the Institute.
”We are pleased that this matter has been resolved and that Ms Sodiq has regained her freedom. We appreciate the DSS for responding to our intervention and for facilitating her release,” Mojeed said.
He, however, reminded security agencies of the need to balance national security with the protection of fundamental human rights.
”While we recognise the responsibility of security agencies to enforce laws and regulations designed to protect national security, such responsibilities should always be discharged with due regard for the constitutional rights of journalists and other citizens,” Mojeed added.
The IPI president further advocated for continuous dialogue between the media and security agencies to ensure that national interests are protected without unduly choking press freedom.
While appreciating all individuals and organizations that supported the efforts to free the journalist, IPI Nigeria reiterated its commitment to defending independent journalism.
The body added that it will continue to engage constructively with relevant authorities to safeguard press freedom within the boundaries of the law.
IPI Nigeria is the local affiliate of the International Press Institute (IPI Global)—a global network of editors, media executives, and journalists spanning over 100 countries—which has been at the forefront of defending press freedom since its inception in 1950.
