…Controversial arrest sparks outrage over press freedom and cybercrime law abuse
By our reporter
Renowned Nigerian journalist Fejiro Oliver, also known as Oghenedoro Tega, has been remanded in prison by a court in Asaba, Delta State, following his arrest over a series of social media posts targeting Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Senator Ede Dafinone.
Oliver was arrested on September 18, 2025, at his office in Abuja by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force. He was subsequently transferred to Delta State, where he is facing criminal charges filed under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act of 2015.
According to court filings, the journalist made a number of Facebook posts between May and August 2025, in which he referred to Governor Oborevwori as a “sleeping governor who rigged the 2023 elections” and described Senator Dafinone as a “sleeping senator.” He also allegedly accused the governor of awarding inflated contracts and undertaking secret international travels without official disclosure.
The prosecution claims that the posts were not only defamatory but also intended to cause public disaffection and damage the reputation of the public officials involved. Police investigators further alleged that the comments amounted to cyberstalking under Nigerian law.
Fejiro Oliver has denied all charges. His legal counsel, led by rights activist and lawyer Inibehe Effiong, has described the charges as politically motivated and an attempt to silence critical journalism. They argue that Oliver’s posts fall within the limits of lawful expression and constitute fair criticism of elected officials.
Legal and media advocacy groups have condemned the arrest and detention, warning that the misuse of the cybercrime law is becoming a common tactic to intimidate journalists and stifle freedom of speech. Human rights organisations have also raised concerns about the prolonged detention without bail, describing it as a violation of due process.
On October 2, 2025, the Federal High Court in Asaba ordered the police to justify Oliver’s continued detention after he had spent over two weeks in custody. However, new charges were filed shortly after, resulting in his continued remand.
The case has sparked growing debate across the country about the protection of press freedom, the accountability of public officials, and the rising use of cybercrime laws to silence dissent. As proceedings continue, journalists and civil society organisations are calling for reforms to ensure that freedom of expression and the right to criticise those in power are respected in a democratic society.
