Veteran journalist and press freedom advocate, Lanre Arogundade, has expressed deep relief and gratitude following the announcement that his name has been officially removed from the Department of State Security (DSS) watchlist after nearly four decades of surveillance and harassment.
The announcement was made by Musikilu Mojeed, President of the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria, at the 3rd Nigerian Media Leaders’ Summit in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Mojeed revealed that the Director-General of the DSS, Adeola Ajayi, had formally communicated the decision to IPI Nigeria during a recent engagement.
Arogundade, who has endured years of scrutiny and brief detentions at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, welcomed the development with a mix of relief and reflection. Speaking at the summit, he acknowledged the persistent advocacy of IPI Nigeria and other media stakeholders who fought tirelessly for his delisting.
“This is a victory not just for me, but for press freedom and democracy in Nigeria,” Arogundade stated. “For decades, I have been subjected to unnecessary harassment simply for standing up for the rights of journalists and citizens. Today, I feel a sense of justice finally being served.”
His inclusion on the watchlist dates back to the military regime of 1984-1985, when he served as President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). His activism during that period led to state surveillance, which persisted long after Nigeria transitioned to democracy.
The announcement was met with applause from media executives and journalists present at the summit, many of whom have followed Arogundade’s struggles over the years.
IPI Nigeria commended the DSS for finally acting on the matter, noting that the decision followed sustained and intensive campaigns to ensure Arogundade’s name was removed from the list.
As Nigeria continues to navigate challenges surrounding press freedom and security, Arogundade’s case serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting journalists and ensuring that state institutions uphold democratic values.
