Damilola Ayeni, a journalist from the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), has been arrested in Benin since August 31, 2023. According to BENIN WEB TV, the journalist was arrested while he was in the Pendjari park area gathering information on an environmental-related topic.
Accused of jihadism, Damilola Ayeni is in the custody of the Beninese police and faces a sentence of 10 to 20 years in prison. He has been detained by the police in Parakou since August 31 and was transferred to Cotonou on Tuesday, September 5, 2023. FIJ colleagues have confirmed this information, which was also confirmed by the chief commissioner of Parakou.
Damilola Ayeni will be questioned by the Criminal Brigade before being presented to the Court for the Repression of Economic Offenses and Terrorism (Criet), a special court responsible for cases of jihadism and terrorism. In this court, the judges are known for being strict. In this case, Damilola Ayeni could face a sentence of 10 to 20 years in prison if found guilty.
Damilola Ayeni is not the first journalist to be arrested under these circumstances in northern Benin. Since the rise of jihadist attacks, journalists have faced difficulties in properly performing their jobs in this part of the country. Prior to Damilola, several other journalists have been arrested and questioned by the Criet for jihadism or espionage.
