The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ekiti State Council, has called for the immediate release of Yemi Agbeleoba, General Manager of Our People’s FM, who was arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) over an alleged sexual harassment case at the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE).
Agbeleoba was accused of breaching the peace of FUOYE through a WhatsApp group, but the NUJ claims the arrest is an attempt to cover up a sexual misconduct allegation involving the university’s Vice-Chancellor.
Addressing journalists in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, NUJ Chairman Kayode Babatuyi condemned Agbeleoba’s arrest, describing it as a violation of his constitutional rights.
He emphasized that while the union has consistently defended FUOYE’s image, it would not tolerate harassment or victimization of journalists.
Babatuyi called on FUOYE’s management and the DSS to release Agbeleoba immediately, warning that the NUJ would take drastic measures, including a media blackout on FUOYE’s activities if the issue was not addressed.
“The situation is linked to the ongoing sexual scandal involving the FUOYE Vice-Chancellor,” Babatuyi stated.
“We totally condemn Agbeleoba’s arrest. It is unjust, unnecessary, and appears to be an attempt to shield the Vice-Chancellor from scrutiny.
“We call on the state government to intervene. The NUJ has always protected FUOYE’s reputation, but this attempt to suppress the press over a frivolous matter is unacceptable.
“The current NUJ leadership will not tolerate the harassment of journalists. The DSS should focus on investigating the sexual misconduct case instead of diverting attention.
“Yemi Agbeleoba must be released immediately, before the end of today,” Babatuyi warned.
The NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to press freedom and vowed to resist any form of intimidation against its members.
