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| An image showing the INTERPOL logo paired with a picture of Peter Olasupo, a broadcaster from Ibadan, Nigeria, who has been invited by INTERPOL for questioning over allegations of criminal defamation and cyberstalking. The case has sparked public interest and discussions on media freedom. |
Overview of the Incident
The International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) has issued an invitation to Peter Olasupo, a broadcaster based in Ibadan, Nigeria, over allegations of criminal defamation and cyberstalking. The broadcaster is expected to appear at the INTERPOL headquarters located at Force Headquarters, Shehu Shagari Way, Garki, Abuja, on Monday, January 13, 2025.
The allegations have generated significant public interest, especially regarding the involvement of INTERPOL in what appears to be a domestic issue. Olasupo confirmed the invitation via a statement shared on his Facebook page, which was subsequently obtained by Daily Post and other media outlets.
Details of the Invitation
According to Olasupo, the invitation letter was initially dated December 30, 2024, and was delivered through his employer. The letter requested his presence at the INTERPOL office for further investigation into the allegations. However, after consulting with his lawyer, Barrister Yomi Ogunlola, the date of his appearance was rescheduled to January 13, 2025.
In his statement, Olasupo expressed concerns about the logistics and financial implications of traveling to Abuja, especially given the rising costs of transportation. He questioned why he could not report to a more accessible location, such as the Nigeria Police Headquarters in Oyo State or Lagos.
Olasupo stated, “Why must I report to the Abuja office? Why can’t I report to the Nigeria Police Headquarters at the Oyo State Command, Eleyele, Ibadan, or even their Lagos office, which would be easier for me to reach by train?”
Broadcaster Maintains Innocence
In his statement, Olasupo vehemently denied the allegations, claiming he is innocent and has no knowledge of the complainant or the specifics of the case. He said, “I recently received a letter with the headline Investigation Activities/Invitation Letter from INTERPOL, informing me of an investigation into allegations of criminal defamation and cyberstalking involving me. At the moment, I don’t have full details of the matter, but I will present myself at their office and fully cooperate with INTERPOL’s investigation.”
Olasupo also raised questions about the identity of the complainant, saying, “Who reported me to INTERPOL? Why INTERPOL? Who is defaming who? And who is cyberstalking who? My Lord, I am innocent of these allegations.”
Concerns Over Financial and Logistical Challenges
The broadcaster highlighted the challenges of traveling to Abuja for the investigation. He sarcastically suggested that INTERPOL should provide travel allowances or use a police helicopter to ease the burden of the journey. He also expressed concerns about the risks of traveling by road and the high costs of air travel.
Despite these concerns, Olasupo reassured his fans and supporters that the situation would not deter him from his professional commitments. “To my fans, please know that this will not affect my dedication to doing the right thing or my professionalism, which you all know me for. I remain committed to speaking the truth to those in power,” he said.
Public Reactions and Next Steps
The case has sparked widespread discussions about the role of INTERPOL in domestic disputes, as well as the implications of such allegations for media freedom in Nigeria. Many have questioned whether the involvement of an international organization like INTERPOL is justified in this case.
As the January 13 date approaches, more details about the allegations and the investigation are expected to emerge. Olasupo has promised to fully cooperate with the investigation while maintaining his innocence.
This development and growing scrutiny faced by media professionals in Nigeria raises important questions about the balance between freedom of expression and accountability.
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