A Nigerian journalist and media activist, Maazi Obinna Oparaku Akuwudike, has been arrested by police in Owerri, Imo State, sparking concerns of political intimidation and suppression of whistleblowers.
Obinna was reportedly picked up around 3:00 a.m. on Thursday, following a recent viral interview on Adeola Fayehun’s YouTube show, where he made explosive revelations about an alleged smear campaign targeting Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
In the interview, Obinna disclosed that he was paid a substantial sum by Sandra Duru, also known as Prof Mgbeke, to produce defamatory media content aimed at discrediting Senator Natasha.
While Obinna initially accepted the project as a typical media production contract, he claimed he began to grow uneasy after noticing inconsistencies in Duru’s statements.
His concerns escalated after witnessing controversial remarks made by Duru during a livestream.
“I received money for producing videos but grew concerned after noticing inconsistencies in Duru’s public statements,” he said.
Obinna said he eventually withdrew from the project and decided to publicly expose the alleged lies, calling the entire operation a deliberate smear campaign filled with “fabricated falsehoods” against the senator.
His arrest has raised alarm among civil society groups and media observers, who fear a larger plot to silence dissenting voices, especially those linked to sensitive political allegations.
Senator Natasha has previously accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, heightening speculation around Obinna’s detention.
When contacted, the Imo State Police Command confirmed Obinna’s arrest. The Public Relations Officer stated:
“Yes, he is confirming a case we are investigating. Initially, he was the complainant. But then he posted another video on social media which amounted to defamation of character against one Sandra Duru.”
According to the police, Obinna was invited for questioning but failed to show up, prompting his arrest. Authorities assured that there is no cause for alarm, and that a diligent investigation would be conducted.
“At the end of the day, justice will be served,” the spokesperson added.
