Journalist Raises Alarm Over Alleged Police Trap Linked to Investigative Report

A Nigerian journalist has issued a public security alert, alleging an attempted covert operation to lure and arrest him, possibly in retaliation for a recent investigative report on a sitting federal lawmaker.

In a detailed statement released on Monday, July 21, the journalist claimed that at exactly 9:57 p.m. on Saturday, July 19, he received a suspicious phone call on his private line—one that is not used for media or business purposes. The caller, using the number 0814 297 0985, was identified via Truecaller as CPL Asaph SPU, allegedly an officer with the police Special Protection Unit (SPU).

According to the journalist, the caller introduced himself, claimed he had come across the journalist’s profile on Facebook, and offered a vague media-related job. However, he insisted that they meet in person on Monday before revealing any details. The journalist described the call as evasive and lacking transparency.

Concerned by the unsolicited nature of the call and how the number reached his strictly private line, the journalist sought advice from a security expert, who warned that this could be a covert tracking attempt, possibly aimed at facilitating his arrest. The expert further suggested that the caller may have obtained the number through expanded surveillance methods, especially as the journalist’s official media contact is frequently unreachable.

This development follows the publication of an investigative report by Asiwaju Media, which focused on the activities of a House of Representatives member representing Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency. The journalist believes the suspicious call may be linked to that publication.

“If I have committed any offence or am under lawful investigation, I expect to be invited through proper legal channels,” the journalist stated. “I will honour any legitimate invitation in accordance with the law.”

He strongly condemned what he described as “illegal and clandestine methods” being used to harass and intimidate independent journalists. He called on the police and relevant authorities to investigate the matter and uphold the rule of law.

“This is not just a personal threat—it is a direct attack on press freedom,” he warned. “Attempts to silence the media through covert tactics have no place in a democratic society.”

The journalist concluded by reaffirming his commitment to fearless and fact-based journalism: “We will continue to report the truth. We will not back down.”

The statement has since sparked concern among press freedom advocates and civil society organizations.