By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Department of State Services has released the journalist who covers Sowore daily activities while in demand over the alleged drone regulation violation.
African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has announced the development in a new post on his official handles.
In a statement issued following her release, Sowore said Sadiq’s freedom “came after the conscientious intervention and determined pressure of Nigerians at home and abroad.”
“WE HAVE GOOD NEWS! Ms. Zainab Sadiq is finally free from the grip of repression!” Sowore wrote.
Sowore listed those who he said played key roles in securing her release, including human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN; Musikilu Mojeed of the International Press Institute; Barrister Marshal D F Abubakar; activist Adeyanju Deji; Amnesty International Nigeria; TakeItBack Movement activists; journalists; and civil society organizations.
“To everyone who raised their voice, made calls, demanded justice, and stood firmly against repression: THANK YOU!” he added.
Sowore described the development as proof that collective action works.
“When people of conscience unite and stand against injustice, repression can be defeated. Welcome back, Zainab!” he said.
Meanwhile, the DSS had earlier confirmed detaining Sadiq over allegations of transporting an unmanned aerial vehicle, or drone, without the mandatory End User Certificate required by the Office of the National Security Adviser.
The Service said she was intercepted on July 6, 2026 at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, while attempting to board a flight to Abuja. She was later asked to report to the DSS National Headquarters in Abuja for further investigation.
The detention sparked criticism from press freedom groups and activists who called it an attack on journalists.
