The Ogun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) is appalled and outraged by the illegal detention of our Union Secretary, Comrade Bunmi Adigun by the Police Area Commander of Zone 2, Abeokuta, ACP Ogundele Olorunwa. This consistent brazen abuse of power and disregard for the rule of law of this supposed senior police officer is unacceptable and demands immediate attention by the higher authorities of the force.

The Council Secretary, while engaging in efforts to restore sanity around our Council Secretariat last night, an area that has unfortunately become overrun by individuals, especially ladies of the night (Olosho), engaging in activities that undermine the dignity of our profession and safety of our community, was detained for hours on Tuesday, October 21st till the wee hours of Wednesday, October 22nd, 2025 by the Area Commander, upon reporting and seeking assistance of the police to arrest a defiant individual, who is equally a lady of low virtue (Olosho), that was continuously causing a nuisance in and around of our Secretariat.

Shockingly, instead of supporting our efforts to maintain law and order, the Area Commander chose to detain our Union Secretary for hours after checking his Facebook account and realized the Secretary used the CDHR story against the Area Commander. He confronted Comrade Adigun, thanking his stars for the opportunity to have his pound of flesh. He immediately ordered his detention, and a written statement, citing an alleged authority that clearly reflects an abuse of power. These actions are a clear example of policing gone wrong, prioritizing personal interests, and aiding and abetting immorality over public safety and the rule of law.

This incident is unacceptable and indicative of a troubling trend within the law enforcement hierarchy. The Nigeria Union of Journalists condemns this act as a blatant violation of the rights of a law-abiding citizen and journalist who was merely fulfilling his duty to uphold the law alongside police officers. While standing firmly against any form of intimidation, harassment, or abuse of authority by law enforcement officials, we discountenance actions that undermine press freedom and the rights of citizens. 

Furthermore, we are aware that the Area Commander currently has a pending case before the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, which raises even more alarm about the conduct of individuals in positions of authority.  However, this growing number of complaints against the actions of the Area Commander necessitates immediate attention and action to prevent further deterioration of law enforcement's reputation and conduct within our community.  

Though we are reassured by our cordial relationships with other police officers of integrity, especially the State Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, as a matter of exigency, we call on the CP himself to take swift action against this errant officer and ensure that justice is served. Ogun NUJ deserves better cooperation from the law enforcement agencies as we strive to sanitize our secretariat.

As a Union, we stand united in solidarity with our Secretary, Comrade Bunmi Adigun, and in advocating for justice, accountability, and the protection of our rights as journalists. 

We demand immediate investigation into Comrade Adigun's illegal detention, and a thorough investigation into the Area Commander's conduct with appropriate attendant actions towards justice.

Equally, we urge the government of Ogun State and other law enforcement agencies to uphold the rights and safety of the media, reaffirm their commitment to press freedom and the safeguarding of journalists' rights in Ogun State. Any harassment or intimidation against media practitioners must come to an end. We therefore, encourage all media practitioners and members of the public to lend their voices in this crucial matter. 

We will not back down until the Area Commander is brought to justice for his abuse of authority.  

Signed:

Comrade 'Wale Olanrewaju,

Chairman, NUJ Ogun State Council.