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The Department of State Services (DSS) has released a staff member from OrderPaper, a media organization operating within the National Assembly, after issues arose concerning the accuracy of their reporting. This incident raises important questions about media integrity and the potential implications of misinformation in the political landscape.
The worker, Edna Ulaeto, was reportedly detained by the secret police on Friday but was released shortly afterward. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding the treatment of media personnel and underscores the importance of protecting journalistic integrity in the face of potential governmental overreach.
The release of the staff member was confirmed in a statement by the Nigerian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI), signed by its legal adviser and Head of Advocacy, Toby Soniyi. In this statement, Soniyi stressed that such incidents underline the ongoing challenges faced by journalists and the necessity for a more supportive environment for media professionals.
The statement said, “The Nigerian chapter of the International Press Institute is pleased to announce the release of Edna Ulaeto, a staff member of OrderPaper, from the custody of the Department of State Security.
“Ulaeto was arrested on October 18, 2024, but was released the same day thanks to IPI Nigeria’s swift intervention.
“The company had inaccurately reported this week that DSS operatives invaded the Nigerian National Assembly as part of a purported plot to impeach Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
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“The DSS expressed concerns that OrderPaper’s publication posed serious national security threats and caused significant local and international embarrassment.
“The agency said it sought to understand from company the reasoning behind the inaccurate reporting and potential sources of false information aimed at destabilising the country.
“IPI Nigeria acknowledges the DSS’s concerns and appreciates their decision to release Ulaeto.
“We are hereby emphasising the importance of adhering to journalistic ethics and accurate reporting.
