The Nigeria Police Force has summoned Segun Olawoye, publisher of Objectv Media, to its State Criminal Investigation Department in Lagos for questioning. The invitation letter, dated October 26, 2027, requests Olawoye's presence on October 29, 2026, at 10:00 am. The letter, signed by ACP Ngozi C. Okoye Udeichi, cites an ongoing investigation requiring Olawoye's clarification. Olawoye shared the letter on his social media account, sparking concerns over the motives behind the summons.
This is not the first time Olawoye has been summoned by the police. In September 2026, he was grilled by the Police Special Fraud Unit in Lagos over his reporting on public projects. Olawoye had reported on the handling of projects by the Ministry of Works and Laralek Construction Company, leading to his invitation for a "fact-finding" interview. Olawoye's legal team has requested a postponement of the latest summons until next week, citing the need for more time to prepare.
Olawoye, an investigative journalist and infrastructure analyst, has faced criticism and backlash for his critical reporting. In March 2026, he alleged that the Minister of Works, David Umahi, was behind a threat to his life. The dispute centered on a secret recording of a meeting related to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project. Olawoye has also clashed with the Lagos State Taskforce over a viral video alleging extortion by its operatives.
The escalating police summons against Olawoye have raised concerns over press freedom in Nigeria. The Nigeria Police Force's actions have drawn parallels to a broader crackdown on media practitioners engaged in legitimate reporting on matters of public interest. In August 2025, Omoyele Sowore, publisher of SaharaReporters, was invited for questioning and spent two consecutive days in police custody.
Journalists and civil society groups have expressed concerns over the use of security agencies to harass media practitioners. Olawoye's summons has sparked a heated debate over the limits of press freedom and the role of security agencies in regulating the media. The latest development has raised questions about the government's commitment to protecting press freedom and promoting transparency.
The Lagos Police Force has not disclosed the specific details of the investigation or the reasons behind Olawoye's summons. However, Olawoye's lawyer has indicated that they will attend the meeting next week, pending the outcome of their postponement request. The development has sparked widespread interest, with many Nigerians following the story and expressing solidarity with Olawoye.
The summons against Olawoye highlights the challenges faced by investigative journalists in Nigeria. Despite the risks, Olawoye and other journalists continue to play a crucial role in holding those in power accountable and promoting transparency in government. The international community has expressed concerns over the state of press freedom in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for the government to protect journalists and promote a free and independent media.
Key points
- The Nigeria Police Force has summoned Segun Olawoye, publisher of Objectv Media, for questioning, amid concerns over press freedom.
- Olawoye's summons has sparked concerns over the use of security agencies to harass media practitioners engaged in legitimate reporting on matters of public interest.
- The development has raised questions about the government's commitment to protecting press freedom and promoting transparency.
