The International Press Institute’s Nigerian National Committee (IPI Nigeria) has raised concerns over a series of attacks on journalists covering the #EndBadGovernance protests across the country.
IPI Nigeria reminds security agencies that journalists have a constitutional duty to report on events and should not face harassment or violence while fulfilling their professional responsibilities.
While acknowledging the role of law enforcement in maintaining order, the committee emphasized that journalists play a crucial role in keeping the public informed and must be protected while doing so.
The committee called on the police to investigate reported assaults on journalists and ensure their safety.
Among the incidents cited:
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Benard Akede of News Central Television was allegedly harassed by police officers in Lagos, who prevented him and other journalists from conducting interviews during a live broadcast.
In Kano, a Channels Television vehicle transporting eleven journalists was vandalized, leading to the assault of TVC journalist Ibrahim Isah. Other media vehicles, including those of Premier Radio and Cool/Wazobia/Arewa FM, were also attacked in Kano.
In Abuja, Premium Times journalist Yakubu Mohammed sustained head injuries after being struck by police officers with gun butts and batons while covering the protests.
Several cameras were destroyed by police, and Jide Oyekunle, a photojournalist with Daily Independent and Chairman of the FCT Correspondent Chapel of the NUJ, was arrested, with his mobile phone seized.
IPI Nigeria has called on the leadership of security agencies to ensure that these attacks cease immediately, and warned that any officers involved in such actions would be held accountable.