The Department of State Services has released Zainab Sodiq, a media aide to Omoyele Sowore, following intervention by the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria). Sodiq had been detained over her possession of a drone.
Malam Ahmed Shekarau, secretary of IPI Nigeria, announced the release in a statement issued on Saturday. He said Sodiq was freed to the institute's leadership at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Friday.
Security operatives intercepted Sodiq at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Monday, July 6, 2026, as she prepared to travel with the device. She was initially allowed to proceed to Abuja but was directed to report to DSS headquarters on Wednesday.
The agency subsequently detained her for carrying the drone without an End User Certificate. According to Shekarau, IPI Nigeria has now confirmed her release from custody.
Musikilu Mojeed, president of IPI Nigeria, welcomed the outcome and praised the DSS for engaging with the institute. "We are pleased that this matter has been resolved and that Ms Sodiq has regained her freedom," he said.
Mojeed added that the institute appreciates the DSS for responding to its intervention and facilitating her release. He acknowledged that security agencies bear responsibility for enforcing law and order.
"Such responsibilities should always be discharged with due regard for the constitutional rights of journalists and other citizens," he told reporters. The IPI president called for continued dialogue between security agencies and the media.
He noted that legitimate security concerns must be addressed without unnecessarily restricting press freedom or hindering journalists performing their duties. The institute thanked individuals and organisations that expressed concern over Sodiq's detention.
IPI Nigeria reiterated its commitment to working constructively with relevant authorities to protect press freedom while respecting legitimate national security interests. The institute stressed the importance of operating within the framework of the law and respecting fundamental human rights.
The International Press Institute is the Nigerian affiliate of IPI Global, a network spanning more than 100 countries. It comprises editors, media executives and prominent journalists committed to upholding press freedom standards worldwide.
