In a tense encounter at the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) in Abuja on Tuesday, Bukky Shonibare, the chairman of FIJ’s Board of Trustees, found herself under intense scrutiny. The NPF-NCCC, in an unprecedented move, summoned Shonibare to clarify matters related to cybercrime and a case under investigation involving FIJ. Despite the organization's commitment to transparency, the invitation raised eyebrows due to its unusual nature.
Shonibare, a seasoned lawyer, accompanied by FIJ’s legal counsel, arrived at the NPF-NCCC office, prepared to address any concerns. However, the interrogation took an unexpected turn as officers pressed Shonibare to "produce" Fisayo Soyombo, FIJ’s founder, before releasing her. This demand left Shonibare perplexed, as it implied that Soyombo was evading authorities, a notion she vehemently denied.
The interrogation, which Shonibare described as more akin to questioning than an investigation, began with officers expressing dissatisfaction over FIJ's public announcement of the invitation. Despite the initial cordiality, the atmosphere soon turned adversarial, with officers making biased remarks and insinuations.
Shonibare highlighted instances of discrimination during the interrogation, particularly concerning her gender and age. Despite the inherent biases, Shonibare remained composed, asserting FIJ's commitment to journalistic integrity and Soyombo's reputable track record.
The interrogation took a concerning turn when officers insisted on meeting Soyombo, prompting Shonibare to clarify that he was not evading authorities. Despite assurances of cooperation, the NPF-NCCC's handling of the situation raised questions about its motives and adherence to due process.
As the dust settles, concerns linger about the implications of the NPF-NCCC's actions for press freedom and civil liberties in Nigeria. Shonibare's ordeal underscores the delicate balance between law enforcement and journalistic independence in the country.
Efforts to seek clarification from the NPF-NCCC regarding the encounter were met with ambiguity, further fueling speculation about the organization's intentions. With the spotlight on this incident, stakeholders await further developments, hoping for transparency and accountability in the handling of cybercrime investigations.
