The Department of State Services, or DSS, has released Omoyele Sowore’s media aide, Zainab Sodiq, to the leadership of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria).
Sodiq was arrested and jailed by the Department of State Services (DSS) because she possessed a drone.
In a statement made on Saturday, Malam Ahmed Shekarau, Secretary of IPI Nigeria, stated that Sodiq was released to the Institute’s leadership at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Friday as a result of the organization’s involvement.
Shekarau stated: “The Nigerian National Committee of IPI Nigeria has announced the release of journalist Zainab Sodiq, who was held by the Department of State Services (DSS) for possessing a drone.
“Ms Sodiq was reportedly intercepted by security operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Monday, July 6, 2026, while preparing to travel with the drone.”
The institute’s secretary confirmed that she was allowed to continue her travel to Abuja on Monday.
He stated that she was directed to report to DSS headquarters on Wednesday, when she was held for possessing the gadget without the required End User Certificate.
According to him, IPI Nigeria has confirmed Sodiq’s release to the Institute’s leadership.
In response to the situation, Musikilu Mojeed, President of IPI Nigeria, welcomed Sodiq’s release and thanked the DSS for working with the Institute.
“We are relieved that the situation has been addressed and that Ms Sodiq has been released. We thank the DSS for reacting to our assistance and allowing her release.
“While we accept security agencies’ role to maintain law and order, such tasks must always be carried out with proper regard for the constitutional rights of journalists and other citizens.
“We encourage continued dialogue and mutual understanding between security agencies and the media to ensure that legitimate security concerns are addressed without unduly impeding press freedom or journalists carrying out their professional duties.”
The institute thanked those persons and organisations that voiced concern over the journalist’s arrest and backed efforts to gain her release.
It reaffirmed its commitment to constructive interaction with relevant authorities to protect journalistic freedom while acknowledging valid national security concerns within the limits of the law and respecting fundamental human rights.
IPI Nigeria is the Nigerian affiliate of the International Press Institute (IPI Global), a global network of editors, media executives, and top journalists from over 100 countries.