The Implications of INTERPOL Summoning Broadcaster Peter Olasupo for Defamation and Cyber-Stalking
Peter Olasupo, a broadcaster based in Ibadan, Nigeria, has been summoned by the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) over allegations of criminal defamation and cyberstalking.
The official letter, dated December 30, 2024, requested Olasupo to appear at INTERPOL’s headquarters in Abuja on that same day. Due to the short notice, his legal counsel, Barrister Yomi Ogunlola, intervened to reschedule the appointment to January 13, 2025.
Olasupo expressed surprise at the summons, noting the lack of specific details regarding the allegations. He questioned the necessity of traveling to Abuja, suggesting that local offices in Ibadan or Lagos could facilitate the investigation more conveniently. Despite these concerns, he has committed to cooperating fully with INTERPOL’s inquiry.
This development has raised discussions about press freedom in Nigeria, especially considering recent instances where journalists have faced legal challenges under cybercrime laws. Olasupo, known for his outspoken journalism, reassured his audience that this situation would not deter his commitment to professional integrity and speaking truth to power.