DSS Releases OrderPaper Staff as IPI Nigeria Intervenes

The Nigerian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI) has announced the release of Edna Ulaeto, a staff of OrderPaper, from the custody of the Department of State Security (DSS).

Ulaeto was arrested on October 18, 2024, but was released the same day thanks to IPI Nigeria’s swift intervention, the statement said, adding that the medium (OrderPaper) 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.

According a statement on Saturday signed by Tobi Soniyi, Legal Adviser & Head, Advocacy Committee of IPI Nigeria, “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 the reporter the reasoning behind the inaccurate reporting and potential sources of false information aimed at destabilising the country.”

The statement further said, “IPI Nigeria acknowledges the DSS’ concerns and appreciates their decision to release Ulaeto.”.

IPI Nigeria said, “We are hereby emphasising the importance of adhering to journalistic ethics and accurate reporting.

“While OrderPaper promptly issued a retraction and apology, we understand DSS’ argument about the damage already done to it and the country.

“We urge journalists to always verify information before publishing and refrain from sensationalism. Truthful reporting is crucial for a stable society.”

How our staff was whisked away – OrderPaper

The Management of OrderPaper on Friday October 18, 2024, announced in a statement that a group of armed men, identifying themselves as officers of the Department of State Services (DSS) from the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), forcefully stormed the home of an OrderPaper staff member, Edna Ulaeto, and abducted her without any explanation.

“OrderPaper suspects this cruel and unjust act is connected to a recent news article that mistakenly reported on an alleged DSS invasion of the National Assembly, supposedly to block an attempt to impeach the Senate President. Despite immediately issuing a retraction and public apology, masked men broke into her home, tore through her personal belongings, and caused immense trauma to her and her family.

“No official notice or invitation was ever sent to the individual or OrderPaper by the DSS or police, raising serious concerns of foul play.

“This brazen, terrifying act has left the entire staff of OrderPaper living in fear, uncertain of what may happen next. We urgently call on the public, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and the international community to demand her immediate release and to ensure her safety. Join us in condemning this unlawful attack on press freedom and basic human rights before it is too late”, the statement said in part.