Gabon: Journalist Roland Olouba Oyabi Released After Four-Day Detention. LIBREVILLE, Gabon — 20 January 2026 (AGP) – The journalist Roland Olouba Oyabi, director of Gabon Mail Infos (GMI), has been released following a four-day detention, according to the Gabonese Agency of Press. Oyabi was detained on January 15 in Libreville by agents of the Direction générale des contre-ingérences et de la sécurité militaire, commonly known as B2.
The reasons for his detention have not been officially disclosed.
The Gabonese Agency of Press reported that Oyabi’s release occurred without any official communication regarding potential judicial proceedings against him. His detention and subsequent release have sparked concern among journalists and press freedom organizations, who are calling for the respect of media professionals’rights.
Local sources indicate that the B2 unit has presented its apologies to the High Authority of Communication (HAC).
This development has been met with mixed reactions; while some view it as a sign of respect for press freedom, others express skepticism about the circumstances surrounding the detention. Official statements indicate that no further details about the case have been provided by the authorities.
The media community remains vigilant about the treatment of journalists in Gabon and awaits clarity on the motivations behind Oyabi’s detention. Further details are expected as the situation unfolds. Sources close to the matter say that the situation is being closely monitored by both domestic and international press freedom groups.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
