DSS Frees Journalist Held Over Drone Following IPI Nigeria's Intervention

The Department of State Services (DSS) has released journalist Zainab Sodiq, who was detained over her possession of a drone, following the intervention of the Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria).

In a statement issued on Saturday, IPI Nigeria Secretary Ahmed Shekarau said Sodiq was handed over to the institute's leadership at about 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026, after discussions with the security agency.

Sodiq was reportedly stopped by security operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Monday, July 6, while preparing to travel with a drone. Although she was allowed to continue her journey to Abuja, she was directed to report to the DSS headquarters on Wednesday, July 8, where she was detained for allegedly possessing the device without the required End User Certificate.

Reacting to her release, IPI Nigeria President Musikilu Mojeed welcomed the development and commended the DSS for responding positively to the institute's intervention.

"We are pleased that this matter has been resolved and that Ms. Sodiq has regained her freedom. We appreciate the DSS for engaging with us and facilitating her release," Mojeed said.

He stressed that while security agencies have the responsibility to enforce laws aimed at protecting national security, they should always respect the constitutional rights of journalists and other citizens.

Mojeed also called for stronger cooperation between security agencies and the media to ensure legitimate security concerns are addressed without undermining press freedom or preventing journalists from carrying out their professional duties.

IPI Nigeria thanked individuals and organisations that supported efforts to secure the journalist's release and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting press freedom, independent journalism, and the protection of media professionals while recognising the importance of national security within the framework of the law.

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