Breaking: DSS Releases OrderPaper Worker Following IPI Nigeria Intervention

In a swift turn of events, Edna Ulaeto, a staff member of OrderPaper, was released from the custody of the Department of State Security (DSS) on October 18, 2024, thanks to the prompt intervention of the Nigerian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI)

Ulaeto’s arrest was linked to OrderPaper’s inaccurate report of a purported plot to impeach Senate President Godswill Akpabio, allegedly involving DSS operatives invading the Nigerian National Assembly. The DSS expressed concerns that the publication posed serious national security threats and caused significant local and international embarrassment.

The agency sought to understand the reasoning behind the inaccurate reporting and potential sources of false information aimed at destabilizing the country.

IPI Nigeria acknowledged the DSS’s concerns and appreciated their decision to release Ulaeto, emphasizing the importance of adhering to journalistic ethics and accurate reporting.

“We urge journalists to always verify information before publishing and refrain from sensationalism. Truthful reporting is crucial for a stable society,”_ said Tobi Soniyi, Legal Adviser and Head of Advocacy Committee, IPI Nigeria.

OrderPaper promptly issued a retraction and apology, acknowledging the damage already done to the DSS and the country.

The statement:

DSS Releases OrderPaper Worker Following IPI Nigeria Intervention*

The Nigerian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI) is pleased to announce the release of Edna Ulaeto, a staff member 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 publication 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.

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 arrested worker the reasoning behind the inaccurate reporting and potential sources of false information aimed at destabilising the country.

IPI Nigeria acknowledges the DSS’s concerns and appreciates their decision to release Ulaeto.

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.

Tobi Soniyi
Legal Adviser & Head, Advocacy Committee IPI Nigeria