Concerned citizens and human rights advocates have demanded the immediate release of investigative journalist Fejiro Oliver, describing his detention by the Delta State Police Command as unlawful and politically motivated.
At a press briefing in Asaba, civic leaders, including Barr. Omes Ogedegbe of the Confab for the Actualization of Human Rights, Comrade Dr. Akima Kelly Umukoro of the Urhobo Progress Union Youth Wing, and Daniel Etaga, former President of the Niger Delta Youth Council, condemned what they called the “weaponization of the police against dissenting voices.”
They issued a 7-hour ultimatum: release Fejiro unconditionally, grant him bail, or charge him to court, or face legal and civil action.
The activists accused police of abandoning genuine petitions and instead confronting Fejiro with old Facebook posts, many unrelated to any formal complaint.
“Law enforcement agencies are supposed to be impartial umpires. Instead, the Delta Police have turned themselves into tools of personal revenge.” — Barr. Ogedegbe
Fejiro Oliver, who calls himself a “secret reporter,” is known for fearless investigative work that unsettles politicians and the powerful. His supporters insist his ordeal is not about law, but about silencing a critical voice.
“Who is afraid of Fejiro Oliver? If there are genuine allegations, why was he not investigated before being arrested?” — Comrade Akima.
The civic leaders noted that the 24–48 hour constitutional window for arraignment has expired, yet Fejiro has been held for over two weeks without trial.
Etaga described his confinement under the Anti-Kidnapping Unit as “inhumane,” alleging denial of meals, visits, and unrestricted communication.
“This is persecution, not prosecution—it is an attempt to intimidate opposition voices in Delta State.” — Daniel Etaga
The coalition urged Governor Sheriff Oborevwori not to allow state institutions to be hijacked for intimidation.
“The money being spent in government is not their father’s money—it belongs to the people.” — Comrade Akima
They dismissed the petitions against Fejiro as “watery” and argued that if cyberbullying was truly at issue, it should be tested in open court.
Who Is Fejiro Oliver?
Fejiro Oliver is an investigative journalist and activist, branding himself as a “secret reporter.” Known for fearless exposés of corruption and abuse of office, his reports have unsettled the powerful and sparked heated debates.
Supporters hail him as a watchdog for accountability. Critics accuse him of being too confrontational. Now, his detention has turned into a test case for press freedom and human rights in Delta State.
Day of Arrest: Picked up by Delta Police, placed under Anti-Kidnapping Unit.
First Days: Denied food, visits, and open communication.
Public Outcry: Rights groups demand access; limited communication later allowed.
Allegations: Police confront him with old Facebook posts instead of clear petitions.
Two Weeks Later: Still detained, well beyond the 24–48 hour constitutional window.
Press Conference: Civic leaders issue 7-hour ultimatum.
Present: All eyes on Delta Police—will they release him or escalate the crisis?