The Nigeria Police Force has officially arraigned 11 suspects before a Magistrate Court in connection with the brutal murder of an Arise TV journalist and a security guard. The proceedings took place today, Wednesday, 21 January 2026, amidst tight security and a heavy presence of members of the press.
The victims, identified as Ibrahim Oladipo (a seasoned field reporter) and Samuel Etim (a private security guard), were killed during a violent attack at a media logistics hub in Lagos earlier this month.
The suspects face a multi-count charge, including conspiracy to commit murder, armed robbery, and illegal possession of firearms.
The Prosecution: Police prosecutors stated that forensic evidence and “technical intelligence” (tracking of the victims’ stolen devices) led to the arrest of the gang members in different parts of the state.
The Defense: Legal counsel for the 11 suspects pleaded “not guilty” to all charges, with some claiming they were victims of a mass arrest and were not at the scene of the crime.
The Ruling: The presiding Magistrate ordered that all 11 suspects be remanded in custody at a correctional facility pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
Case Background (January 2026)
The attack on the Arise TV staff sent shockwaves through the Nigerian media community, sparking nationwide protests over the safety of journalists.
| Detail | Information |
| Date of Crime | January 4, 2026 |
| Location | Media House Logistics Center, Ikeja, Lagos |
| Victim 1 | Ibrahim Oladipo (Reporter, Arise TV) |
| Victim 2 | Samuel Etim (Security Personnel) |
| Arrest Count | 11 Suspects (Ages 19 to 34) |
Reactions from the Media Community
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Arise TV management were present in court. A spokesperson for Arise TV stated:
“While we are relieved to see the legal process begin, nothing can replace the lives of Ibrahim and Samuel. We are watching this case closely to ensure that this is not just an arraignment, but a journey toward a swift and just conviction. The safety of journalists must be a priority.”
