By O’star Eze
A legal battle has intensified over the detention of journalist Francess Olisa Ogbonnaya, who was arrested on June 2, 2025, by the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre in Abuja.
According to a court order dated July 4, 2025, from the High Court of Abia State, Ogbonnaya seeks to enforce her fundamental rights, alleging her arrest and detention by respondents, including Sandra Chidinma Duru and police authorities, violate her rights to dignity and personal liberty under Sections 34 and 35 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution.
The court has restrained further actions against her pending case resolution and ordered the return of her confiscated Itel A80 Android phone.
Ogbonnaya, a mother to a young son and daughter, claims her arrest stemmed from an interview on the Adeola Fayehun Show, where she exposed alleged threats to her life by Duru.
She further alleges Duru paid her N100,000 as an Easter present and N300,000 to produce voice-overs, later demanding a refund when the content did not meet her expectations.
This dispute escalated into accusations of cyber-bullying, leading to her detention and the forceful procurement of her phone’s password, which she argues breaches her right to privacy under Section 37.
Appeal to Authorities
As the case unfolds, advocates are pleading with the Nigerian judiciary, police, and government to release Francess Olisa Ogbonnaya to her young children and resolve the matter amicably.
The court’s interim order highlights the need for a fair investigation, and her counsel, Chief A.C.R. Onubogu, seeks N500 million in damages for the alleged rights violations. “Francess is a dedicated mother and journalist whose family suffers in her absence,” said a supporter. “We urge the powers that be to prioritize her release and ensure justice is served swiftly and compassionately.”
The outcome of this case could set a precedent for press freedom and individual rights in Nigeria, making an amicable resolution critical for Ogbonnaya’s reunion with her children and the restoration of her livelihood.
