The Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has secured the release of journalist Zainab Sodiq, who was detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) over the possession of a drone without the required documentation.

In a statement issued on Saturday, IPI Nigeria Secretary, Ahmed Shekarau, disclosed that Sodiq was handed over to the institute’s leadership at about 7:30 p.m. on Friday following sustained engagement with the security agency.

According to Shekarau, the journalist was initially intercepted by security operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on July 6, 2026, while preparing to travel with the drone.

He explained that although Sodiq was allowed to proceed with her journey to Abuja, she was instructed to report to the DSS headquarters on Wednesday. Upon her appearance, she was detained over allegations of possessing the device without the requisite End User Certificate.

“The Nigerian National Committee of IPI Nigeria has announced the release of journalist Zainab Sodiq, who was detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) over her possession of a drone,” Shekarau said.

He confirmed that the institute had successfully intervened and that the journalist had regained her freedom.

Reacting to the development, President of IPI Nigeria, Musikilu Mojeed, welcomed Sodiq’s release and commended the DSS for engaging constructively with the institute throughout the process.

“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 stressed that while security agencies have a legitimate responsibility to enforce laws and maintain public safety, such duties must always be carried out with full respect for the constitutional rights of journalists and other citizens.

Advertisement

Mojeed further called for stronger collaboration between security institutions and the media, noting that effective communication and mutual understanding are essential for balancing national security concerns with the protection of press freedom.

“We encourage continued dialogue and mutual understanding between security agencies and the media to ensure that legitimate security concerns are addressed without unduly impeding press freedom or journalists carrying out their professional duties,” he added.

IPI Nigeria also expressed gratitude to individuals, media organisations and civil society groups that raised concerns over Sodiq’s detention and supported efforts aimed at securing her release.

The institute reaffirmed its commitment to engaging relevant authorities in safeguarding press freedom, promoting independent journalism and protecting journalists while acknowledging the importance of national security within the bounds of the law and respect for fundamental human rights.

IPI Nigeria is the Nigerian affiliate of the International Press Institute (IPI Global), a worldwide network of editors, media executives and leading journalists operating in more than 100 countries. Established in 1950, the organisation has spent over seven decades championing press freedom and defending the rights of journalists across the globe.

The Nigerian chapter, founded in the 1960s by some of the country's leading media figures, has continued to play a prominent role in advancing media independence, promoting ethical journalism and advocating for the safety and protection of journalists nationwide.