The International Press Centre (IPC) has issued a warning regarding a troubling rise in attacks on journalists by security personnel and hoodlums, highlighting these actions as deliberate attempts to stifle truthful reporting on ongoing protests.
Recently, an incident occurred in which officials from the National Security Adviser’s office abducted a camera and phones belonging to a photojournalist. Unfortunately, as of the latest report, the belongings have yet to be returned.
In a separate incident in the Federal Capital Territory, police officers deployed tear gas against journalists who were covering protests at Berger roundabout. Additionally, masked security operatives discharged firearms at journalists at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, resulting in gunfire damaging a vehicle belonging to reporters from various outlets.
In Borno State, nine staff members from a local radio station were detained by security officials while they were actively reporting on the protests. Journalists covering the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement have faced harassment and violence from both security agents and troublemakers.
IPC’s Press Freedom Officer expressed grave concern over these incidents, emphasizing that the safety of journalists is in jeopardy and that public trust in news media is at stake. IPC stated that as protests continue, the targeting of journalists remains appalling and unacceptable.
The IPC has gathered information indicating a concerning increase in attacks on media professionals, ranging from physical assaults to unlawful detentions. The Centre believes that these violent acts aim to intimidate journalists and prevent them from fulfilling their duty to inform the public.
IPC has called on the Inspector General of Police and heads of security agencies to take action and ensure the protection of journalists in the field. They stress the importance of collective condemnation of these abuses and demand immediate action to safeguard those reporting on the ground.
IPC remains committed to advocating for an end to violence against journalists and reinforcing their rights and dignity within society.
