Tension is growing in Delta State as Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Attorney General Ekemejero Ohwovoriole (SAN) have been accused of abusing judicial processes to prevent the release of investigative journalist Oghenetega Oghenedoro, popularly known as Fejiro Oliver, despite being granted bail by the Federal High Court, Asaba.
Oliver, publisher of Secret Reporters, an online platform known for exposing corruption and political misconduct, was arrested on September 18, 2025, by police operatives in Abuja. His arrest reportedly followed a petition filed by Governor Oborevwori and Senator Ede Dafinone, accusing him of cyberstalking and defamation.
After being detained for 21 days without trial, the journalist was arraigned before Justice Olufunmilola A. Agbaje on October 9, where he pleaded not guilty. On October 16, 2025, the court granted him bail on fair and constitutional terms following arguments by his lawyers, Inibehe Effiong and Austin Nyekigbe (Esq.).
However, sources allege that the Delta State Government, dissatisfied with the ruling, immediately began plotting to block Oliver’s release. The Attorney General’s office reportedly filed fresh charges against the journalist at a Magistrate Court in Asaba, a move described by legal experts as a clear attempt to circumvent the Federal High Court’s order.
According to insiders, a state magistrate, Mrs. Nkechi Edith Anumadu, was quickly assigned to handle the new case and allegedly issued an order directing prison officials to bring Fejiro before her court on Monday, October 20, 2025.
Civil rights groups have condemned the move, calling it an “orchestrated misuse of judicial power” meant to keep Oliver behind bars. They also expressed concern over the harsh bail conditions being considered, including requiring civil servants as sureties, a tactic critics say is meant to intimidate potential guarantors who fear government backlash.
“This isn’t justice; it’s persecution,” said a human rights advocate in Asaba. “Fejiro Oliver is being punished for exposing the powerful, and the government is using the courts to silence him.”
Observers warn that the situation underscores the growing threat to press freedom in Nigeria and the weaponisation of the judiciary against dissenting voices.
