Security operatives, reportedly from the Nigeria Police Force, have taken into custody Prince Owolemi Emorioloye, a vocal critic of Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, at his home in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State.

Eyewitnesses said the arrest occurred around 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026, when armed men in two unmarked white Hilux vans forced entry into Emorioloye’s residence near the Okonga/Olodo Junction. A family member who saw the incident described how he was manhandled before being taken away, and his current location remains unknown.

Emorioloye, also known as Emotel, serves as Director-General of the Asiwaju Media Team and has repeatedly questioned the authenticity of the NYSC discharge certificate allegedly held by Minister Tunji-Ojo. Sources indicate his detention is linked to his persistent calls for a review of the minister’s academic and service credentials.

His legal team, Ogbulu Chambers, has formally petitioned Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, demanding accountability and the immediate disclosure of Emorioloye’s whereabouts. The petition, dated January 15, 2026 and signed by Odidiomo Ayowole, Esq., describes the detention as a gross violation of his constitutional rights.

According to the lawyers, Emorioloye has been denied access to family and legal counsel, in breach of Sections 35 and 36 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, which protect personal liberty, human dignity, fair hearing, and access to legal representation.

The petition demands either Emorioloye’s immediate release or his production before a competent court, warning that failure to comply will trigger legal action for enforcement of rights and compensation. Copies of the letter have also been sent to the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, and the Divisional Police Officer in Igbokoda.

An aide to Minister Tunji-Ojo denied any involvement in the arrest, stating that the minister welcomes criticism and does not order the detention of those who voice dissenting opinions.