The Department of State Services has confirmed the detention of journalist Zainab Sodiq over the alleged possession of an unauthorised drone.
The clarification comes after activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore accused the secret police of unlawfully holding the journalist.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the DSS said Sodiq was intercepted on July 6, 2026, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos by operatives of the Service working alongside Aviation Security personnel of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria. According to the agency, she was stopped while attempting to board a flight to Abuja.
The DSS said the unmanned aerial vehicle, commonly known as a drone, was being transported without the mandatory End User Certificate required under existing regulations issued by the Office of the National Security Adviser for the acquisition and use of drones in Nigeria.
According to the statement signed by the Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, Sodiq admitted during questioning that she did not have the required authorisation for the drone.
The Service, however, said she was allowed to proceed on her scheduled trip to Abuja because she had an earlier engagement, but was directed to report to the DSS National Headquarters on Wednesday, July 8, for the continuation of investigations.
Confirming her current status, the agency said Sodiq is being held at its National Headquarters in Abuja as the investigation continues.
The DSS maintained that its action is in line with regulations that empower the Service to impound and sanction individuals or organisations found operating or transporting Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems without the necessary approval.
It added that the enforcement measure is driven by growing local and international concerns over the use of drones, particularly issues linked to public safety and privacy.
The agency also said it remains committed to professionalism and the rule of law as it continues its investigation into the matter.
