Army Detains Journalist and Activist During Planned Protest in Delta

Soldiers from the Nigerian Army 3 Battalion stationed in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, apprehended Mr. Dele Fasan, the South-South Bureau Chief of Galaxy Television, in the early hours of Friday.

Fasan was allegedly recording video clips during a planned labor protest in the metropolis.

Additionally, a human rights activist, Comrade Israel Joe, was taken into custody by the soldiers following a confrontation with other activists, including Kelvin Ejumudo.

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Despite the initial plans for the protest, it was canceled after critical stakeholders convened and deliberated on the issues the night before.

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The incident involving Fasan occurred at the DSC roundabout in Effurun, where witnesses reported that soldiers mistreated him, including using the butt of their guns against him.

Fasan was detained in the presence of a police team led by Deputy Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola.

However, he was later released after intervention from the police boss and colleagues, who appealed to the Army Commander, Major AE Ohegbe.

Fasan, in a statement to newsmen, explained that he was attempting to capture video footage of the protest scene, which was heavily secured by law enforcement when the soldiers approached him aggressively.

He commended the civil conduct of the police led by DCP Aina Adesola, contrasting it with the behavior of the military during the protest.

The National Secretary of Human Rights Protection Congress, Comrade Kelvin Ejumudo, emphasized the decision of civil society organizations to prevent the protest from occurring due to nationwide threats.

He condemned the notion of protest at this time, citing potential loss of property and volatility across Nigeria.

Ejumudo called on national and local leaders to urgently address the hunger crisis in the country, emphasizing the need for employment opportunities and functional refineries.

DCP Aina Adesola, while addressing reporters, stated that he was dispatched by the Commissioner of Police to maintain peace at the scene.