The Department of State Services (DSS) has freed Edna Ulaeto, an employee of OrderPaper, less than 24 hours after her detention in connection with a report alleging that personnel had invaded the National Assembly.
This alleged invasion was reportedly intended to prevent a planned impeachment of Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Her release was confirmed by the Nigerian branch of the International Press Institute (IPI), in a statement issued on Saturday by Tobi Soniyi, the Legal Adviser and Head of the Advocacy Committee.
The statement signed by the
Legal Adviser & Head, Advocacy Committee IPI Nigeria, Tobi Soniyi said the DSS expressed concerns that OrderPaper’s publication posed serious national security threats and caused significant local and international embarrassment.
It reads in part: ‘Ulaeto was arrested on October 18, 2024, but was released the same day thanks to IPI Nigeria’s swift intervention.
“The reporter had inaccurately reported this week that DSS operatives invaded the Nigerian National Assembly as part of a purported plot to impeach Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
“The DSS expressed concerns that OrderPaper’s publication posed serious national security threats and caused significant local and international embarrassment.
“The agency said it sought to understand from the reporter the reasoning behind the inaccurate reporting and potential sources of false information aimed at destabilising the country.
“IPI Nigeria acknowledges the DSS’s concerns and appreciates their decision to release Ulaeto.
“While OrderPaper promptly issued a retraction and apology, we understand DSS’ argument about the damage already done to it and the country.
We urge journalists to always verify information before publishing and refrain from sensationalism. Truthful reporting is crucial for a stable society”.