IPC Sounds Alarm Over Attacks on Journalists Covering Protests

The International Press Centre (IPC) has condemned the rising attacks on journalists by security forces and hoodlums, labeling these acts as deliberate attempts to obstruct truthful reporting on ongoing protests.

On Thursday, officials from the National Security Adviser’s office reportedly abducted The PUNCH photojournalist Kayode Jaiyeola, taking his camera and phones. His belongings have yet to be returned.

The following day, in the Federal Capital Territory, police fired teargas at journalists covering protests at Berger Roundabout.

On Saturday, masked security operatives fired at journalists at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, with bullets piercing a Premium Times reporter’s vehicle transporting journalists from the scene. The journalists targeted included reporters from The Punch, The Cable, Premium Times, and Peoples Gazette.

In Borno State, nine staff members of Radio Ndarason Internationale were arrested by security officials in Maiduguri while reporting on the protests. Other journalists covering the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests have also faced harassment and violence from both security agents and hoodlums.

IPC’s Press Freedom Officer, Melody Akinjiyan, expressed alarm at the growing trend of targeting journalists, which he said threatens their safety and undermines the public’s access to accurate information.

Akinjiyan stated, “It is utterly appalling that journalists are still being attacked, harassed, and assaulted while performing their duties during the protests. This disturbing trend jeopardizes not only the safety of journalists but also the integrity of the information being reported.”

He urged the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and other security heads to rein in their personnel and called for a united effort to condemn the abuse and ensure the protection of journalists.

Akinjiyan concluded, “IPC demands an end to this brutality and a renewed commitment to respecting the rights and dignity of all journalists. We must advocate for their safety and ensure their essential work continues without interference.”