Journalist, Senator Natasha, Akuwudike,
Journalist and media activist Maazi Obinna Oparaku Akuwudike has been allegedly arrested by police in the early hours of Thursday in Owerri, Imo State. The arrest, carried out around 3 a.m., reportedly followed an order from the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
Obinna’s arrest comes days after a widely circulated interview on Adeola Fayehun’s YouTube channel, where he discussed his past professional dealings with media personality Sandra Duru, also known as "Prof Mgbeke." In the interview, Obinna alleged he was paid ₦2.5 million for a media assignment that later raised ethical concerns for him.
He explained that he was initially hired for what he believed to be a routine media production job, but later chose to withdraw from the arrangement after observing what he described as inconsistencies in the narrative being pushed.
“I received money for producing videos but grew concerned after noticing contradictions in public statements,” he said.
Obinna stated that he decided to speak out after a livestream in which Duru made statements he felt compelled to challenge. He claimed the material produced was intended to discredit Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a figure who had previously raised serious allegations against a high-ranking official.
In his interview, Obinna also made references to a broader campaign that he believed lacked a factual foundation, though he did not provide direct evidence to support these claims.
There is public speculation that Obinna’s arrest may be connected to his decision to speak out, though police have not released an official statement confirming the reason for his detention.
Observers are calling for transparency and due process as the matter unfolds, citing concerns about press freedom and the protection of whistleblowers.
