I’m Back”: Fejiro Oliver Returns From Detention, Vows to Keep Criticising Delta Government
By Passman Akpos
Investigative journalist and political commentator Fejiro Oliver has issued a fiery post-detention statement, declaring his readiness to continue scrutinising the Delta State Government while asserting that his recent incarceration has strengthened rather than silenced him.
Oliver, who said he spent September 18 to November 18 in detention, described the two-month experience as “divine,” claiming it revealed to him the extent of public support for his activism. “It is now established that I’m well loved in Delta… You all successfully captured the media for me against my oppressors. F.O 100, oppressors 0,” he wrote.
Says He Will Run for Governor
In the lengthy statement, Oliver insisted that he is convinced he will become Governor of Delta State in a few years, but maintained he would not weaponise the office for revenge.
> “One thing I won’t do is petition Mr Sheriff Oborevwori’s sons or grandsons as revenge,” he said, clarifying that his only planned policy decision in that direction would be the cancellation of pensions for former governors if the law is still in place when he assumes office.
Although he referred to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as “a friend” and said he harbours no malice, Oliver insisted he will continue to criticise the administration as part of his constitutional role as a journalist.
“I’m Not on Trial — the Judiciary Is”
Referencing the ongoing legal case involving him, Oliver said the court had instructed him not to speak directly about the matter. However, he framed his prosecution as symbolic of a broader national issue.
> “I’m not on trial. It’s the judiciary that’s on trial. It’s freedom of expression that’s on trial. It’s Nigerians that are on trial.”
He also alleged that during his arrest investigators searched his home for firearms—an allegation he said he would elaborate on later.
Praise for Lawyers, Activists and Supporters
Oliver thanked several individuals, including human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong, who he said challenged the conditions of his detention when an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process stalled.
He also commended civil society actors, journalists, political allies, and members of the so-called “#FOArmy” for sustaining public advocacy during his detention.
Continues Accusations Against Former Governor Okowa
Maintaining his longstanding public criticisms of former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Oliver reiterated his claims about mismanagement of state funds — allegations which Okowa has previously denied.
He vowed to continue pursuing a petition before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), asserting that governance failures must be confronted “without fear or favour.”
Warns About His Safety Ahead of Trial
With his trial scheduled for December 3–9, Oliver raised concerns about his personal safety and held the Delta State Government responsible should anything happen to him while he is in the state.
“I’m Back”
Ending on a defiant note—and referencing a Naira Marley lyric—Oliver declared himself “unshaken, unbend and unbreakable,” insisting that efforts to silence him have failed.
> “In the lyrics of Naira Marley, I’M BACK.”
