IPI Nigeria to IGP: Safeguard Press Freedom, End Harassment of Journalists
The Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has called on the new Acting Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, to make the protection of press freedom and the safety of journalists a top priority of his administration.
In a statement signed by its President, Musikilu Mojeed, and Legal Adviser, Tobi Soniyi, the media advocacy body urged Disu to immediately halt what it described as a pattern of harassment, intimidation and attacks on journalists witnessed under his predecessor, Kayode Egbetokun.
IPI Nigeria alleged that during the previous leadership of the Nigeria Police Force, journalists were repeatedly harassed, unlawfully detained and, in some instances, assaulted while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
The organisation stressed that the police, as a critical democratic institution, have a constitutional obligation to uphold the fundamental rights of citizens, including freedom of expression and of the press.
According to the statement, the new Inspector-General is expected to ensure that officers and personnel of the Force respect these rights at all times.
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Among other recommendations, IPI Nigeria urged Disu to end all forms of harassment and unlawful detention of journalists; review and withdraw pending cases targeting media professionals for carrying out legitimate duties; institute a comprehensive reorientation programme for police personnel focused on press freedom and human rights obligations; and establish clear communication channels between police leadership and media stakeholders to prevent and resolve conflicts.
The organisation revealed that, due to what it termed persistent violations under the previous administration, it had included Egbetokun in its “Book of Infamy” — a record of individuals and institutions whose actions or inaction allegedly facilitated attacks on press freedom in Nigeria.
IPI Nigeria called on Disu to chart a different course and rebuild trust between the police and the media, noting that respect for press freedom is essential to sustaining democracy.
“A free and independent press strengthens accountability, enhances transparency and supports law enforcement efforts by informing the public responsibly,” the statement noted, adding that the roles of the police and the media in a democratic society are complementary rather than adversarial.
The organisation reiterated its readiness to engage constructively with the new leadership of the Nigeria Police Force to address areas of concern and foster a mutually respectful relationship between law enforcement agencies and the media.
It also wished the new police chief a successful tenure, urging him to seize the opportunity to restore public confidence in the Force’s commitment to democratic values and the rule of law.
By PRNigeria
