The Department of State Security DSS has released a member of staff of OrderPaper, Edna Ulaeto from its custody following the timely intervention of the Nigerian chapter of the International Press Institute IPI.

Recall that the medium had last week inaccurately reported that DSS operatives invaded Nigeria’s National Assembly as part of a purported plot to impeach Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Ulaeto was arrested on October 18, 2024, but was released same day thanks to IPI Nigeria’s swift intervention.

The DSS expressed concerns that OrderPaper’s publication posed serious threats to national security and caused significant local and international embarrassment.

The agency said it sought to understand from the reporter the reasoning behind the inaccurate reporting and potential sources of false information aimed at destabilising the country.

According to a statement jointly signed by the Legal Adviser & Head, Advocacy Committee IPI Nigeria, Tobi Soniyi and President of GOCOP, Maureen Chigbo, the Institute acknowledges the DSS’s concerns and appreciates its decision to release Ulaeto.

“We hereby emphasise the importance of adhering to journalistic ethics and accurate reporting.

“While OrderPaper promptly issued a retraction and apology, we understand DSS’s argument about the damage already done to it and the country.

“We urge journalists to always verify information before publishing and refrain from sensationalism. Truthful reporting is crucial for a stable society”, the statement read in part.