In a surprising development, the Delta State Government has secured a reproduction warrant from Magistrate Court 3 in Asaba to arraign activist journalist Fejiro Oliver on new, undisclosed charges. Rights groups have criticized this action, calling it a deliberate attempt to intimidate civil servants and silence a vocal government critic.
This move comes after the state government faced a setback at the Federal High Court, where it was unable to get the bail conditions it wanted.
In a tactical move, the government has now turned to the Magistrate Court, aiming to set bail conditions that require state workers to act as sureties. Observers believe this is a deliberate effort to intimidate civil servants, who may fear retaliation or even dismissal if they agree to get involved.
The new charge, titled *State (Gov. Sheriff) vs. Fejiro Oliver*, was filed on October 17, 2025, requiring Oliver to appear before Her Worship Edith Nkechi Anumadu (Mrs) on Monday, October 20, 2025, for arraignment.
Human rights advocates, including Comrade Kelly Efemena Umukoro Akima, have condemned the move, calling it an attempt to use the judiciary as a tool to silence dissent.
“This is clearly an effort to suppress the voice of the people,” said the rights activist in Asaba. “Using legal means to target those who speak out against the government undermines democracy and weakens trust in the justice system.”
He added, “Fejiro Oliver, widely known as the ‘Five Star General Prisoner of Conscience’ and the ‘Voice of the Masses,’ has long been a thorn in the side of those in power. His fearless reporting and exposure of alleged government corruption have made him both a public hero and a target for political retaliation.”
He added, “After failing to get what it wanted in the Federal High Court, the government has now turned to the Magistrate Court to impose harsh bail conditions that require civil servants to act as sureties. They’re counting on the fear of retaliation to keep this fearless journalist behind bars and silence a powerful voice for the people.”
Supporters of Oliver have urged judicial officers to remain fair, independent, and just, warning against any political interference that could undermine the integrity of the courts.
“Power is temporary, but truth and justice last forever,” his supporters said.
The upcoming arraignment has drawn widespread attention, with civil society groups, activists, and the public closely watching to see whether the judiciary will hold firm or give in to political pressure.
