Kogi Lawmaker Allegedly Linked to Arrest of KOGI Reports Editor Over Senatorial Primary Story
The Editor and Publisher of online newspaper Kogi Reports, Mr. Opeyemi Owoeye, was reportedly arrested on Thursday, June 11, 2026, by operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) following the publication of a report concerning the APC Kogi West Senatorial primary election.
According to information published by Kogi Reports and sources close to the journalist, the arrest was allegedly connected to a story that linked Hon. Leke Abejide, the Member representing Yagba Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, to efforts aimed at influencing the outcome of the party’s senatorial primary.
The report specifically alleged that the lawmaker was seeking to leverage the office of the President’s Chief of Staff, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, in relation to the primary process.
Sources cited by the Online newspaper claimed that Hon. Abejide directed NSCDC operatives to carry out the arrest. However, the lawmaker had not publicly responded to the allegation as of the time of filing this report.
The NSCDC also had not issued an official statement explaining the circumstances surrounding Owoeye’s arrest or the legal grounds for his detention.
Sources within the command reportedly indicated that the journalist was being held pending further directives.
The incident has generated concerns among media practitioners and free speech advocates, particularly as questions continue to surround the basis for the detention of a journalist over a published report.
Free Speech advocate and right activist note that this is not the first time allegations have surfaced linking the lawmaker to the use of security agencies against critics.
In 2025, a political associate identified as Jesse from Mopamuro was reportedly arrested and detained after publicly questioning Hon. Abejide over constituency power-sharing arrangements.
The lawmaker did not publicly address those claims at the time.
Family sources also expressed disappointment over the development, noting that Owoeye’s late father was a known supporter of the federal lawmaker, a fact they say has made the situation particularly distressing.
There were also claims that efforts to secure Owoeye’s bail were delayed, with associates alleging that NSCDC officials informed them that his release would require further instructions from the lawmaker.
Attempts to obtain comments from Hon. Leke Abejide and the Kogi State Command of the NSCDC were unsuccessful as of press time.
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