The Network Against Corruption and Anti-Drug Trafficking (NACAT) has issued a scathing condemnation of the arrest and ongoing detention of Mr. Fejiro Oliver, describing it as an “unlawful, unconstitutional, and politically motivated” act orchestrated by high-ranking officials.
The organisation, in a statement signed by Stanley Ugagbe, NACAT Operations Manager, alleges that the arrest was carried out by operatives of the Nigerian Police Force under the direction of Delta State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Abaniwonda Olufemi, at the behest of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District.
According to NACAT, Mr. Oliver, a renowned journalist, whistleblower, and anti-corruption advocate, was forcibly apprehended in Abuja on Thursday, September 18, 2025.
He was swiftly transferred to Asaba, Delta State, where he remains detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) alongside hardened criminals and suspected kidnappers.
NACAT decried the detention as a blatant attempt to silence Oliver, whose investigative work has exposed high-level corruption, abuse of power, and organized crime across Nigeria.
“This crude attempt to silence him is not just an attack on an individual, but a direct assault on civil liberties, freedom of expression, and the soul of Nigeria’s democracy,” the press release stated.
NACAT criticized the Nigerian Police Force for allowing itself to be used as a tool for political persecution, accusing state authorities of weaponizing power to suppress dissent and protect corrupt practices.
The organization has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Fejiro Oliver, warning that his continued detention serves as a “litmus test” for Nigeria’s commitment to justice, the rule of law, and human rights.
NACAT called on the media, civil society, human rights defenders, and the international community to rally in support of Oliver and hold those responsible accountable.
“This is not just about Fejiro Oliver — this is about the future of free speech and accountability in Nigeria,” said Stanley Ugagbe, NACAT’s Operations Manager, in the statement.
The organization has launched a public campaign with hashtags #FreeFejiroOliverNow, #StopPoliticalPersecution, and #DefendDemocracy to galvanize support for Oliver’s release and to spotlight the broader implications for democratic freedoms in Nigeria.
As the situation develops, all eyes are on the Nigerian authorities to see how they respond to this high-profile case, which has sparked widespread concern among activists and citizens alike.
