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IPC Congratulates Ms. Anikeade Funke-Treasure on International Recognition for “Voice of Dignity” For immediate release, October 11, 2025 The International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos-Nigeria, heartily congratulates Ms. Anikeade Funke-Treasure, a distinguished member of the IPC Board, for being honoured with an Award Plaque for the “Voice of Dignity” by the Heroes of Tomorrows Africa Foundation (HOTAF) in the United States of America. This remarkable recognition is a well-deserved testament to Ms. Funke-Treasure’s unwavering commitment to amplifying voices, promoting dignity, and advancing ethical journalism and impactful storytelling both within and beyond Nigeria’s media landscape. As a seasoned broadcaster, media development expert, and advocate for gender inclusion, Ms. Funke-Treasure has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, leadership, and dedication to societal transformation through the media. Her achievement inspires not only the staff and management of IPC but also a generation of journalists and media practitioners striving to make a meaningful difference. “The IPC Board and Management are proud to be associated with Ms. Funke-Treasure’s accomplishments and celebrate this international honour with immense joy and admiration”, stated Mr. Lanre Arogundade, IPC’s Executive Director and Board Secretary. We urge her to continue to blaze the trail, mentor younger professionals, and champion the values of dignity, justice, and excellence for which she is being recognized. SGD:Melody Akinjiyanmelodyakinjiyan@ipcng.orgProg. Officer, International Press Centre (IPC)

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IPC Calls for Immediate Probe and Justice following Death of Arise News Anchor, Somtochukwu MaduagwuFor Immediate ReleaseLagos, Nigeria – September 30, 2025The International Press Centre (IPC) is deeply saddened by the death of Ms. Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a news anchor and producer with Arise News Channel, who died following an attack by an armed gang in Abuja on September 29, 2025.According to reports aired on Arise News Daybreak, the incident occurred around 3:00 AM at Unique Apartments in Katampe, FCT. Attackers, reportedly numbering up to fifteen, stormed all 16 apartments within the compound. Security personnel alerted the police but received no response. Ms. Maduagwu was rushed to Maitama District Hospital, where she later died.The report notes that relatives said she died due to delayed treatment, as hospital staff refused care until her identification was presented. This tragic event highlights serious failures in Nigeria’s healthcare and emergency response systems.In a statement, Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of IPC, expressed deep sorrow over the incident:“We are deeply saddened by the death of journalist Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, and we demand a thorough, independent investigation, as well as the prompt prosecution of the perpetrators.”He further emphasized the broader implications of inaction:“Failure to conclude the investigation and bring those responsible to justice creates a dangerous environment for citizens and media professionals alike, while fostering a culture of impunity that threatens press freedom and democratic accountability.”This tragedy adds to ongoing threats against journalists in Nigeria. IPC recently condemned the death of Peter Ojo, an Ibadan-based journalist who was killed in August 2025.IPC’s 2024 report recorded 45 attacks on journalists and 3 on media outlets, with many cases unresolved. Between 1992 and 2024, at least 22 journalists have died under suspicious circumstances, with no conclusive investigations.IPC calls on:• The Nigeria Police Force and FCT Command to urgently conduct and publicly communicate the results of a thorough, independent investigation.• The Federal Government to take immediate action to reform emergency and healthcare systems that fail victims in moments of need.• Hospital authorities to provide a public explanation regarding the delay in treatment of Somtochukwu and take steps to ensure such tragic lapses never recur.• Media bodies, professional groups, civil society organisations, and media practitioners to jointly demand accountability and justice for all victims of violence, and to stand united in the fight against impunity.• The Federal Government to investigate all unresolved cases of violence and killings linked to the media, in line with Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression and of the press, as well as Nigeria’s commitments under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.IPC extends its deepest condolences to Ms. Maduagwu’s family, the chairman and management of Arise News, her colleagues, and all who knew her.SGDOlutoyin AyoadeCommunications OfficerInternational Press Centretayoade@ipcng.org

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IPC SPJ-Hub CONDEMNS THE GRUESOME KILLING OF IBADAN – BASED JOURNALIST; DEMANDS FURTHER INVESTIGATION For immediate release September 09, 2025 The International Press Centre, IPC, Lagos-Nigeria, through its Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) Hub has strongly condemned the gruesome killing of Peter Ojo, an Ibadan-based journalist and is demanding further investigation on his death. Information reaching IPC SPJ-Hub states that Peter Ojo was confirmed dead after being shot by suspected armed robbers along the Molete – Oke Ado axis of Ibadan. The report further states that, “the incident, which occurred on August 18, 2025, was initially thought to be health-related until his younger brother, Enahoro Peter, clarified that Ojo was attacked.” The Ibadan-based journalist, before he met the sad fate, worked with Daily Monitor. IPC’s Press Freedom Officer, Melody Akinjiyan, described this unfortunate loss as a sad one for the media industry, considering the fact that Peter Ojo must have left home in perfect health and looking forward to returning, only to be gunned down in broad daylight. “While we acknowledge the ongoing investigations by the Police, we urge them to examine all possible angles and ensure that justice is served. The suspect in Police custody should be immediately charged to court, while efforts are made to arrest the remaining suspects who were said to have escaped. This will go a long way to bring succour to the family and colleagues that he left behind,” Akinjiyan said. SGD: Melody Akinjiyan Press Freedom Officer, IPC melodyakinjiyan@ipcng.org

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Press Statement SPJ-Hub CONDEMNS INTIMIDATION, HARASSMENT AND DETENTION OF AZUKA OGUJIUBA For immediate release, August 27, 2025 The International Press Centre, IPC, Lagos-Nigeria, through its Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) hub condemns the intimidation, harassment and detention of Azuka Ogujiuba, Publisher of Media Room Hub and a former journalist with This Day Newspapers by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force. Information reaching SPJ-Hub confirmed that Azuka Ogujiuba was arrested and detained on two occasions over her coverage of a court case involving a land dispute. Despite being based in Lagos, she has been repeatedly summoned to Abuja. The Executive Director of IPC, Mr. Lanre Arogundade in a statement said, “these actions of intimidation, harassment and detention are highly condemnable and the Police alongside the Federal Government must uphold their responsibility to respect everyone’s right to freedom of expression. The Police must desist from being used to constantly punish journalists who carry out their duties.” “If the Police has anything against Azuka Ogujiuba or if she has committed any crime, the right and lawful step should be taken, not subjecting her to constant harassment,” Arogundade further stated. SPJ-Hub reinforces the need to safeguard press freedom and put a stop to all forms of harassment and intimidation against journalists. SPJ-Hub is therefore calling on the Nigeria Police Force through the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun to stop all forms of intimidation and harassment on Azuka Ogujiuba and guarantee her safety. SGD: Melody Akinjiyan Press Freedom Officer, SPJ-Hub melodyakinjiyan@ipcng.org

#Eu4DemocracyNg, Component 4 (Support to Media), EU-SDGN, European Union, EUSDGN II, Press Release

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Advancing Media Professionalism: IPC, CEMESO Convenes Meeting with Key Media Operational Leaders For Immediate Release: Monday, June 2, 2025 Lagos, Nigeria – The International Press Centre (IPC) and the Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), with support from the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN II), will host a strategic engagement with key media operational leaders on Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025, as part of initiatives to explore how to strengthen ethical and professional standards in reporting Nigeria’s electoral and democratic environment. The high-level event is also designed to foster collaboration among media executives and secure commitments towards inclusive, fair, and accountable electoral reporting. Participants will include media executives and media managers from the broadcast, print, and online media who will exchange ideas and reach common understanding around media’s democratic responsibilities and the need for editorial policies that reflect professionalism and compliance with regulatory standards, including the National Broadcasting Code and the Nigerian Media Code of Election Coverage. According to Mr. Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre (IPC), “As media gatekeepers, operational leaders play a decisive role in shaping narratives and setting standards. This engagement offers an opportunity to strengthen their commitment to journalism that promotes credibility, transparency, and social inclusion.” Dr. Akin Akingbulu, Executive Director of the Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), also emphasized:“This engagement is crucial for aligning media leadership with democratic norms. By reinforcing professional ethics and editorial responsibility at the highest levels, we can ensure that the media continues to play a transformative role in Nigeria’s democratic development.” The June 3rd convergence is one of three planned under this intervention. It will be followed by targeted outreach visits to media houses and virtual follow-up sessions, forming a multi-layered approach to deepening accountability and institutional leadership in the media sector. The EU-SDGN II programme underscores the European Union’s strong commitment to supporting a democratic Nigeria that is pluralistic, inclusive, and participatory. The programme is built on six interconnected pillars: the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the National Assembly, the Judiciary, political parties, civil society, and the media. By reinforcing these key democratic institutions, the programme seeks to promote a system of governance where accountability thrives, citizens are empowered, and every voice is heard. SignedOlutoyin AyoadeCommunications OfficerComponent 4 (Support to Media)EU-SDGN II Programmetayoade@ipcng.org

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14 Years of the FOI Act in Nigeria: Dr. Kayode Fayemi to Lead IPC Stakeholder Dialogue on Transparency and Accountability For Immediate Release: Wednesday, May 28, 2025 Lagos, Nigeria – In its ongoing commitment to promoting transparency and democratic accountability, the International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos-Nigeria, with the support of the European Union, will host a high-level Media and Civil Society Roundtable to commemorate the 14th anniversary of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act in Nigeria. The event, scheduled for Friday, May 30, 2025, in Abuja, will bring together key stakeholders from the media and civil society. Supported by the European Union under its flagship Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria Phase II (EU-SDGN II) programme, the roundtable will focus on enhancing the strategic use of the FOI Act to promote electoral transparency and ensure accountability in governance. Dr. Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, will chair the event and share insights from his governance and civic engagement experience. Distinguished guests expected at the roundtable include Chief Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice; Ambassador Gautier Mignot, EU Ambassador to Nigeria & ECOWAS; the Honourable Minister of Information; and the Chairmen of the Media and Information Committees of the Senate and House of Representatives. The keynote address titled “14 Years of FOI Act: Addressing the Challenges of Compliance and Usage” will be delivered by Mr. Edetaen Ojo, Executive Director of Media Rights Agenda (MRA). A plenary session will follow, featuring contributions from the FOI Unit of the Federal Ministry of Justice and around 40 participants, including representatives of media organisations, civil society groups, and EU-SDGN II implementing partners. Speaking ahead of the event, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre (IPC), said: “At the domestic level in Nigeria, the FOI Act is a powerful instrument for promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in governance, including in electoral processes. However, in the 14 years since its enactment into law on May 28, 2011, the FOI Act has faced persistent implementation challenges and widespread non-compliance by public institutions. Its continued relevance also depends on how effectively the media, civil society, and other stakeholders utilise it to advance openness and accountability in public life. Against this background, our efforts are focused on strengthening institutional compliance and empowering the media to uphold professional, inclusive, and accountable reporting. This includes driving improved compliance with the FOI Act at both federal and state levels, leveraging the Act to foster greater transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s electoral processes, ultimately leading to more credible electoral outcomes.” Mr. Arogundade added that the gathering aims to enhance collaboration with key stakeholders, particularly the media, to ensure the FOI Act’s promise results in tangible progress in transparency, good governance, and increased citizen engagement across Nigeria. The EU-SDGN II programme embodies the European Union’s commitment to nurturing a pluralistic, inclusive, and participatory democracy in Nigeria. It comprises six interlinked components: support to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC); the National Assembly; the Judiciary; political parties; civil society; and the media. By strengthening democratic institutions through coordinated efforts, the programme aims to create a functioning democracy where every voice is heard. Signed:Olutoyin AyoadeCommunications OfficerComponent 4 (Support to Media)EU-SDGN II Programmetayoade@ipcng.org

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Advancing Women Issues in Elections & Democracy: IPC Begin Consultations with NAWOJ & GOCOP For Immediate Release: Friday, May 23, 2025 Lagos, Nigeria – As part of ongoing efforts to enhance democratic participation and elevate women’s voices in Nigeria’s political landscape, the International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos, is convening a series of high-level consultative forums with key media stakeholders. Supported by the European Union under its flagship Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria Phase II (EU-SDGN II) programme, the engagements aim to strengthen the professionalism of female journalists in reporting women-focused issues in elections, governance, and democratic processes. The sessions, organised in collaboration with the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), are scheduled for Saturday, 24 May 2025, in Port Harcourt and Tuesday, 27 May 2025, in Abuja. The EU-SDGN II programme reflects the European Union’s broader commitment to supporting a pluralistic, inclusive, and participatory democracy in Nigeria. It spans five key components, including support to INEC, the National Assembly and Judiciary, political parties, civil society, and the media. Each component is designed to strengthen democratic institutions through coordinated and long-term interventions. The overall objective is to foster a functioning democracy that leaves no voice behind. “At the heart of these consultations is our commitment to exploring innovative, solutions-driven approaches that will amplify women’s voices in the media, especially in the context of elections and political participation,” said Mr. Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of IPC. “We are bringing together female editors, producers, presenters, and senior media executives from across print, broadcast, and online platforms, alongside the national leadership of NAWOJ and GOCOP, to ensure that this effort is collaborative and far-reaching.” “These forums will also focus on how women journalists can take a more active role in advocating for the representation of women in politics and governance. Journalism must be seen not only as a profession but as a strategic tool for influencing public discourse and shaping policy outcomes,” he added. “We expect concrete outputs from these engagements, including strategic frameworks for continued collaboration, clear performance benchmarks, and formal Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to guide implementation going forward.” Arogundade further noted that the consultative forums are part of IPC’s strategic efforts to empower women journalists as key agents for broader gender empowerment and political inclusion. “These consultations form part of our strategic efforts to empower women journalists towards empowering women in general, and female politicians in particular, as we begin to assess the post-2023 midterm context and look ahead to 2027,” he said. Participants will be expected to examine practical strategies that elevate the role of women journalists nationwide in promoting women’s voices and issues, while advocating increased representation and visibility in both political processes and governance spaces. Signed:Olutoyin AyoadeCommunications OfficerComponent 4 (Support to Media)EU-SDGN II Projecttayoade@ipcng.org

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WPFD 2025: IPC and ACSPN Convene Media Stakeholders’ Roundtable on AI, Media & Press Freedom — Prof. Rotimi Olatunji to Deliver Goodwill Message For Immediate Release Lagos, Nigeria – May 6, 2025 To commemorate World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) 2025, the International Press Centre (IPC), in partnership with the Association of Communication Scholars & Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), will host a one-day Media Stakeholders’ Roundtable themed: “Artificial Intelligence, The Media & Press Freedom: Issues & Perspectives.” Supported by IFEX—a global network of over 100 organisations committed to advancing freedom of expression—the roundtable aligns with UNESCO’s World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) 2025 theme, “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media.” It will bring together journalists, media professionals, academics, civil society actors, and policy influencers to critically examine the implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for press freedom. The event, set for Wednesday, May 7, will open with a goodwill remark by Professor Rotimi Olatunji, President of ACSPN and Professor of Public Relations and Advertising at Lagos State University (LASU), followed by an Opening Statement from Mr. Gbemiga Ogunleye, former Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism who will preside over the event. The Executive Director, IPC, Mr. Lanre Arogundade in a statement said: As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the global information landscape, the forum will serve as a platform to assess the opportunities and risks AI poses to media independence, explore the evolving role of the media in an AI-driven world, and develop practical strategies to safeguard journalist safety while defending fundamental freedoms.” Key highlights will include the presentation of the IPC State of Press Freedom Report, offering timely insights into the major challenges facing media freedom in Nigeria. In another session Dr. Monday Ashibogwu, Managing Editor of Quick News, will lead a discussion on AI, the media, and press freedom. Dr. Ganiyat Tijani-Adenle of LASU, will examine the critical issue of journalist safety in an AI-driven media environment. The concluding session will capture stakeholder input and produce actionable recommendations to guide advocacy, policy, and media capacity-building, promoting a rights-based approach to AI and journalism. The outcomes will be widely shared across media, academia, civil society, and government. For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Olutoyin Ayoade Communications Officer, IPC tayoade@ipcng.org

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IPC-SPJ DECRIES THREATS ON JOURNALIST TAYO OYELADUN’S LIFE; CONDEMNS INVASION OF JOY FM 96.5 OTUKPOFor immediate release, February 3, 2025The Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) hub of the International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos – Nigeria is greatly concerned about reported threats on the life of Ibadan-based journalist Mr. Tayo Oyeladun of Lagelu FM.According to report reaching the Safety Alert Desk of IPC, Oyeladun made the claim via a save my soul message posted on his Facebook page on Thursday, 30th January, 2023. He noted that the threat was related to a programme he anchored, tagged “Bosenlo” after which the CPS to Soun Ogbomoso reached out to one of his senior colleagues to express his grievances about the comments of one of the guests. Since then, he began to receive strange threat calls.“The past few days have been hard for me and my family. I am facing death threats for doing my job as a broadcast journalist. I believe in balance opinion and free speech in a democratic setting. I’m living in a society where the system favours the elite and those in position of authority,” he alleged. “I have become a soft target in elite chess games and their pursuit of self-aggrandizement. There is pressure from high places to get me sacked of my job! If I lose my job or life, will they take care of my children and family? My offense? being a child of nobody. Friend and family please keep praying for my safety,” he further stated.IPC-SPJ is deeply worried about the situation of Journalist Tayo Oyeladun and hereby calls on the Nigerian government and the security agencies, especially the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State to ensure that he is not harmed in any way. IPC-SPJ enjoins anyone who may be aggrieved over the comments made during the programme anchored by the journalist or his guest to seek redress through legal channels instead of attempting to resort to extra-judicial self-help. IPC-SPJ therefore appeals to other media freedom groups, freedom of expression organisations and human rights bodies to join in the clamour for his safety.IPC-SPJ is also condemning the forceful invasion and closure of Joy FM 96.5, Otukpo, by the Benue State government. “A team of heavily armed policemen stormed the radio station in two trucks, allegedly led by the Chairman of the Benue Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) and an official of the State Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Otukpo Zone. Staff members were reportedly assaulted, and a journalist reading the 1pm network news bulletin was forced at gunpoint to halt the broadcast,” the report stated.IPC-SPJ states that, this incident is an abuse of power and an attack on press freedom and democracy. We are calling for an immediate investigation of this incident, especially the officials involved. The appropriate punishment should be meted on those found guilty. SGD:Melody Akinjiyan Press Freedom Officer, IPC melodyakinjiyan@ipcng.org

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IPC Holds Fifth Election Multi-Stakeholders’ Dialogue in Yola, Adamawa State

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Press Release   IPC Holds Fifth Election Multi-Stakeholders’ Dialogue in Yola, Adamawa State For Immediate Release Lagos, Nigeria – November 26, 2024. The International Press Centre (IPC) is set to host the fifth edition of its Election Multi-Stakeholders’ Dialogue series in Yola, Adamawa State. Scheduled for Wednesday, November 27, 2024, the event will bring together up to 70 electoral stakeholders to discuss the critical theme: “Rebuilding Trust in the Electoral Processes, Institutions, and Elections.” In line with previous editions in Abuja, Lagos, Kaduna and Calabar, this media and civil society-driven forum aims to address and harvest opinions on how to mitigate the negative perceptions surrounding elections in Nigeria. The forum will explore the root causes of mistrust and emphasise the need for inclusive reforms. Key Outcomes and Focus Areas: The dialogue will focus on gathering submissions and recommendations from a wide range of stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the media, civil society organizations (CSOs), law enforcement agencies, Inter Party Advisory Council, Labour unions, youths, women, and citizens who would be required to make special interventions. The goal is to promote effective collaboration and role-sharing in deepening the process for credible elections. These discussions will inform the development of mechanisms for regular consultations, feedback, and policy adjustments, ensuring that trust-building efforts remain sustained and responsive to emerging challenges. Special Session: The dialogue will feature a lead paper on “Citizens & Elections in Nigeria: The Place of Trust and Responsibilities of Key Electoral Stakeholders,” to be presented by Prof. Annah Malgwi from Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola. The presentation will be followed by key interventions from electoral experts and other prominent stakeholders under the moderation of Dr. Mary Paninga, Deputy Coordinator of the Women Political Empowerment Project in Yola. IPC Executive Director’s Statement: Mr. Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the IPC, emphasised the importance of the feedback collected during the “Rebuilding Trust” series, noting that it offers a valuable opportunity to uncover new challenges in Nigeria’s electoral process. He said: “This feedback not only provides a platform for open dialogue but also serves as a catalyst for reforms, accountability, and strengthening democratic institutions. By continuously engaging with the media, CSOs, and other stakeholders, we can help build public confidence in the election system and contribute to a more transparent, inclusive, and trustworthy democracy in Nigeria.” The dialogue series is supported by the European Union under Component 4 (Support to Media) of the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria Phase 2 (EUSDGN II) project of which the International Press Centre is the lead partner. For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Olutoyin Ayoade Communications Officer, IPC tayoade@ipcng.org   

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