SUNTV Global Channel Report | January 18, 2026
There is growing outrage in Ondo State following the arrest and disappearance of Prince Owolemi Emorioloye, a well-known critic of Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Emorioloye, popularly called Emotel and the Director-General of the Asiwaju Media Team, was allegedly whisked away by armed security operatives believed to be officers of the Nigeria Police Force in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area.
Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred around 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026, near the Okonga/Olodo Junction. According to accounts, the operatives arrived in two unmarked white Hilux vans, forcefully gained access to Emorioloye’s residence, and took him away.
A family member who witnessed the arrest told SUNTV Global Channel that Emorioloye was manhandled before being whisked off. Since then, his whereabouts have remained unknown, sparking fears for his safety.
Emorioloye has been a consistent and outspoken critic of Interior Minister Tunji-Ojo, particularly over questions surrounding the authenticity of an NYSC discharge certificate allegedly linked to the minister. Sources close to the family believe his arrest is connected to his repeated calls for a transparent investigation into the minister’s academic and service records.
In response, Emorioloye’s lawyers, Ogbulu Chambers, have petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, demanding immediate clarification and accountability.
In a petition dated January 15, 2026, and signed by Odidiomo Ayowole, Esq., the law firm stated that their client was arrested at his residence by operatives believed to be police officers and taken to an undisclosed location without explanation.
The lawyers described Emorioloye as a law-abiding citizen who has been denied access to his family and legal counsel since the arrest. They said all attempts to locate or communicate with him have failed, calling the situation a gross violation of his fundamental human rights.
According to the petition, the arrest contravenes Sections 35 and 36 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantee personal liberty, human dignity, fair hearing, and access to legal representation.
Ogbulu Chambers demanded the immediate disclosure of Emorioloye’s whereabouts, clarification of any alleged offence against him, and either his unconditional release or arraignment before a court of competent jurisdiction.
The law firm warned that failure to comply would lead to legal action seeking enforcement of his rights and compensation for unlawful detention. Copies of the petition were also sent to the Assistant Inspector General of Police, the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, and the Divisional Police Officer in Igbokoda.
Meanwhile, an aide to Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who spoke on condition of anonymity, denied any involvement by the minister in the arrest.
“The Minister is used to criticism and understands that it is part of democracy,” the aide said. “He is not the type to order anyone’s arrest for criticising him. Over the years, he has shown that he respects differing opinions.”
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigeria Police Force had yet to officially confirm Emorioloye’s arrest or disclose his location.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor the situation and bring updates as the story develops.
