Nigeria is becoming a country where we cant have freedom of speech despite the fact that we practice a democratic system of government. We live in a country where we watch our journalist been treated without respect and values, yet no country can do without the press.
Yes, we agree that investigative journalist, Kemi Olunloyo can be very aggressive and puts up disturbing posts sometimes, but let’s not forget that she still practices well as a journalist.
On Tuesday, she was arrested by Nigerian police force and taken to Port-Harcourt prison directly by the orders of the inspector General.
In a recent post, Kemi Olunloyo disclosed she was denied bail and she was been charged for cyber-crime over the post she made few weeks ago about Nollywood actress, Iyabo Ojo and Pastor David Ibiyiome.
If you recall, that she put up a post sent to her by a church member claiming the pastor is having an affair with Iyabo Ojo and acquired some of the vehicles the actress is using.
This had angered the pastor and the actress who never spoke about the allegations until they decided to arrest her for defamation of character.
She said: “Dear Media, fans. I was driven by the NPF to Port Harcourt on orders of the IG. Pastor David Ibiyeomie says I criminally defamed him because I posted a letter his church member sent to me alleging corruption and adultery.
Both news-makers refused to answer the allegations but Ibiyeomie called me several times to threaten me with lawsuits, death from above and misfortune. Church spokesman did the same with Danielle Ogbeche of Daily Post too. I have been charged with a cybercrime along with a Rivers state journalist who simply syndicated my story. 500 blogs did. Cybercrime? in the Nigerian constitution and remanded in prison. :
Next week 23rd I appear in court again for a second bail attempt. I will be in this Port Harcourt prison till then. THE PEN IS MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD. #Journalism is not a crime. I love you all. Pls trend #FreeKOO #FreeMadamHNN.
@ludovicca_iacinno pls tells the world. Tweet it to the Toronto Sun’s @Joe_warmington. Pls every one let Joe know. I’m in high spirits. The NPF recommended NO bail. Police is never your friend in Nigeria. I will always be a proud international investigative journalist. I will not see my phone again for a week. Off to a Nigerian prison. Mass Comm students never give up. I don’t need my powerful connections. I want the law to run its course. GOD BLESS.”
In another post, Kemi Olunloyo made Femi Fani-Kayode her official spokesperson while she remains in custody.
