It is surprising and unacceptable that in today’s Nigeria, some people dressed in military uniform stormed the home of a journalist at midnight and whisked him away for over a week.

Development Diaries reports that there have been no traces of the editor of FirstNews, Segun Olatunji, since he was whisked away on Friday, 15 March, 2024.

The blatant disregard for the rule of law and fundamental human rights continues to play out among Nigeria’s security operatives and nothing is being done to stop it.

While reports indicate that Olatunji was taken by armed men, some of whom were dressed in military uniform, the Nigerian military has yet to refute these reports.

According to the Nigerian constitution, a person arrested or detained shall be brought before a court not later than 48 hours, and if the authorities fail to do so, the person must be released on bail, except in cases where they are suspected to have committed capital offences such as murder or armed robbery.

Olatunji’s detention is a violation of his right to freedom. It is unacceptable in a democracy, particularly in the administration of President Bola Tinubu, who promised to uphold democracy in his government.

The government and law enforcement agencies in Nigeria need to be serious about upholding the rule of law and respecting the rights of individuals, no matter the situation or circumstances.

Development Diaries calls on the police and military authorities to provide information regarding the whereabouts of Olatunji and see to his immediate release.