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Press Release

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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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PRESS RELEASE

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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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INTERNATIONAL DAY TO END IMPUNITY FOR CRIMES AGAINST JOURNALISTS: IPC CALLS ON MEDIA STAKEHOLDERS TO STRENGTHEN COOPERATION FOR ENABLING ENVIRONMENT ON SAFETY OF JOURNALISTS

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INTERNATIONAL DAY TO END IMPUNITY FOR CRIMES AGAINST JOURNALISTS: IPC CALLS ON MEDIA STAKEHOLDERS TO STRENGTHEN COOPERATION FOR ENABLING ENVIRONMENT ON SAFETY OF JOURNALISTS For immediate release, November 2, 2024 The International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos-Nigeria is calling on media and relevant stakeholders to work in greater partnership to create a safe and enabling environment for journalists to operate. IPC is making the call today as journalists, other media professionals and freedom of expression groups mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists with the theme: Safety of Journalists in Crises and Emergencies. IPC regrets that the safety of journalists during crises and emergencies in the country remain unguaranteed as evidenced by attacks on the media and journalists during the recent #EndBadGovernance protests and previous ones such as #EndSars. IPC is particularly worried that the perpetrators of the worsening spate of attacks are rarely brought to justice hence the regime of impunity for crimes against journalists continue to reign while the country also continues to rank high among countries where press freedom and freedom of expression are constantly under threat. IPC holds that the outcome of the documentation of attacks on journalists by its Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) hub is disturbing as the database shows that within the past nine (9) months not less than forty (40) incidents of physical assault, harassment, threat to life, torture, kidnapping, unlawful arrest/detention, loss/damage of valuables and gadgets (camera, phones, midgets, money, etc.) among others and involving over sixty-five (65) journalists and other media professionals were recorded. The report revealed that the number of highest cases recorded were in the month of August during the ‘End Bad Governance Protest’ held across the country. Find the details here: STATE OF ATTACKS ON JOURNALISTS IN NIGERIA THE YEAR 2024 (JANUARY – SEPTEMBER) REPORT | International Press Centre – IPC Name of Journalist Gender News Medium Nature of Attack Alleged Perpetrators Location of Attack Benard Akede Male News Central Television Harassment & barred from conducting live broadcast Police officers & LCC officials Lagos State Ibrahim Isah Male TVC News Physical assault Hoodlums Kano State Eleven (11) journalists Not mentioned Not mentioned Vehicle vandalism (Channels TV) & attempt to assault journalists on board Hoodlums Kano State Yakubu Mohammed Male Premium Times Physical assault & cameras of journalists destroyed Police officers FCT, Abuja Jide Oyekunle Male   Daily Independent Unlawful arrest Police officers FCT, Abuja Mary Adeboye Female News Central Television Physical assault (tear gas) Police officers FCT, Abuja Team of journalists led by Joseph Abasi-Abasi Male Nigerian Tribune Physical assault & vandalism of NUJ vehicle Hoodlums Cross-River State Jonathan Ugbal Male Cross River Watch Unlawful arrest & detention Police officers Cross-River State Matthew Ochei     Monday Osayande   Lucy Male     Male     Male Punch Newspaper   Guardian Newspaper Pointer Newspaper Physical assault & destruction of gadgets and working tools Anti-protesters Delta State Olukayode Jayeola Male The Punch Newspaper Unlawful arrest & confiscation of camera and personal belongings Police officers FCT, Abuja Not mentioned Not mentioned The Punch Newspaper, Premium Times, The Cable, Peoples Gazatte Gunshots fired at vehicle conveying journalists Masked security operatives FCT, Abuja Not mentioned Not mentioned Radio Ndarason Internationale Unlawful arrest Security operatives Borno State Not mentioned Not mentioned News Central Television Crew Physical assault Thugs Lagos State The Executive Director of IPC, Mr. Lanre Arogundade in a statement said the precarious situation is unwelcome and deserving of the attention of media stakeholders.  “We are calling for an end to impunity for crimes against journalists in Nigeria. We cannot turn a blind eye to attacks against journalists. We attach the highest priority to the safety of journalists and other media actors. We oppose any action, legislation, regulation or political pressure that limits freedom of the press. Acts of intimidation and violence against journalists in Nigeria have to end for democracy to survive. Attacks against media institutions and journalists are attacks against democratic rights including the right of the public to know the truth about the way they are governed,” Mr. Arogundade said. Mr. Arogundade called on the Presidency to mandate security operatives to carry out the necessary investigations on unresolved cases of attacks on journalists while he also urged the Inspector General of Police to publicly disclose what has so far been done towards unraveling the mystery behind killed journalists in Nigeria. SGD: Melody Akinjiyan Press Freedom Officer, IPC melodyakinjiyan@ipcng.org

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EDO DECIDES: IPC TASKS JOURNALISTS, SECURITY OPERATIVES AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS ON SAFETY

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Press Release EDO DECIDES: IPC TASKS JOURNALISTS, SECURITY OPERATIVES AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS ON SAFETY For immediate release, September 19, 2024 The International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos- Nigeria has enjoined journalists and other media professionals that would be on electoral duty in Edo State on Saturday, 21st September 2024 to pay deserved attention to their safety. IPC also urged security operatives and other stakeholders that would be involved in the Edo State Governorship election to help ensure the safety of journalists. IPC’s Executive Director, Mr. Lanre Arogundade said the call was necessary because of the consistent trend of journalists being victims of attacks during election period and the conflicts and tension by political actors and other players in the electoral process in the state.  “It is very important for journalists covering the Edo State election to be safety conscious in the discharge of their duties, and to avoid situations that will put them in danger.  Journalists are expected to take into consideration some safety measures while on the field he said, adding that they should internalize the following tips: •  Be non-partisan •   Don’t walk or move alone •   Be INEC accredited and have your organizational identity card • Be brave and smart…i.e. cover violent situations from a reasonable distance •   Handle classified information appropriately He also admonished other stakeholders, especially the security agencies to undertake their tasks in a very professional manner. He urged The Inspector General of Police to advice officers and men on the field, to protect accredited journalists, because the media is a critical part of the electoral process and journalists should be accorded due rights and privileges to enable them carry out their social obligations as partners in enshrining the credibility of the electoral process. “Other stakeholders, including elections observers should also proactively provide journalists covering the elections with information to ensure that all work together for the success of the elections”, Mr. Arogundade added. As part of initiatives to keep tab on the safety of journalists, IPC said that there are safety alert officers who journalists under threat/attack can report to via calls or messages. The concerned officers: Melody Akinjiyan (Press Freedom Officer, IPC) – 08132776441 Olutoyin Ayoade (Communication Officer, IPC) – 08114503887 Mr. Arogundade also enjoined journalists to report any threats to the Edo State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists. SGD: Melody Akinjiyan Press Freedom Officer, IPC melodyakinjiyan@ipcng.org

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IPC Condemns Attack on News Central Reporters & Camera men

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Press Release #ENDBADGOVERNANCE PROTESTS IPC Condemns Attack on News Central Reporters & Camera men For immediate release, August 7, 2024 As the #endbadgovernance protests enter the seventh day, the International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos condemns in totality the assault on News Central reporters and camera men by thugs at Freedom Park, Ojota while reporting the protests yesterday, Tuesday, August 6, 2024. Information gathered by IPC’s journalists’ safety alert situation room revealed that there were a handful of police men nearby but they did not lift a finger to stop them when the thugs arrived and assaulted the press crew. “The thugs who were more than ten (10), attacked the crew of News Central Television, who went to the venue to monitor the situation. When the News Central crew arrived, police directed them to leave the park. They relocated to a distant location to continue their live broadcast. During the broadcast, the journalists were confronted by the hoodlums’ wielding sticks and shovels. The thugs assaulted several reporters and forced them to flee, Daily Report published. The Press Freedom Officer, IPC said this incident and many others recorded since the nationwide protests started raises concerns about press freedom and safety of journalists during protests and coverage of societal events. Report published on Pulse.ng stated that, “the Commissioner of Police @LagosPoliceNG, CP Adegoke Fayoade, has ordered an immediate investigation into this incident. He mandated the investigating team to fish out the miscreants and ensure their prosecution accordingly. He gave this directive yesterday when the crew involved, led by News Central MD, @KayodeAkintemi, submitted an official complaint letter at the Command Headquarters, Ikeja.” IPC is therefore again calling on the security agencies, in particular the Commissioner of Police of Lagos State, CP Adegoke Fayoade to fulfill his pledge to go after the thugs who assaulted the journalists and interrogate the policemen who looked the other way while journalists were being attacked. SGD: Melody Akinjiyan, Press Freedom Officer, IPC melodyakinjiyan@ipcng.org — Melody AkinjiyanProgram Officer

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AUGUST 1 PROTESTS – SITUATION ROOM REPORT IPC condemns attacks on journalists during nation-wide protests

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Press Release AUGUST 1 PROTESTS – SITUATION ROOM REPORTIPC condemns attacks on journalists during nation-wide protests For immediate release, August 1, 2024 The International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos has condemned in strong terms the reported attacks on journalists and other media professionals on Thursday August 1 while covering the first day of a nation-wide protest by groups demanding end to hardship inducing economic policies. Information gathered by IPC’s journalists’ safety alert situation room revealed that a number of journalists and media professionals faced one form of attack or the other including physical assault, harassment, denial of access to cover the protest, etc. Some of the affected journalists were injured, arrested or had their working tools destroyed.The details of the incidents as documented by IPC’s Safety of Journalists Alert Desk include: Lagos StateBenard Akede of News Central Television was interrupted and harassed by Police officers and LCC officials who barred him and other journalists from interviewing anyone during a live broadcast. Kano StateIbrahim Isah, TVC News Correspondent was physically assaulted by hoodlums who were with weapons while covering the protest in Kano. He sustained injuries on his hand.A vehicle belonging to Channels television and conveying about eleven (11) journalists which included TVC News Correspondent, Ibrahim Isah was vandalized. The journalists onboard were traumatized by the unfortunate incident. FCT, AbujaYakubu Mohammed of Premium Times was attacked and injured by Police officers who hit him with the butt of their gun and their batons and caused injuries to his head while covering the protest in Abuja.Cameras belonging to journalists were also destroyed by Police officers. Jide Oyekunle, a photojournalist with Daily Independent was arrested and his mobile phone seized by Police officers. Mary Adeboye of News Central Television was also affected by tear gas thrown by Police officers while covering the protest in the FCT Cross-River StateHoodlums in Calabar, Cross River State, launched an attack on journalists, seriously injuring Nigerian Tribune reporter, Joseph Abasi-Abasi. The hoodlums targeted an 18-seater bus belonging to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) that was transporting food items to the Ernest Etim Press Centre in Calabar. Jonathan Ugbal of Cross River Watch was arrested by the Police, beaten and taken to an unknown destination in Calabar. He was later released. Delta StateMatthew Ochei of Punch Newspaper, Monday Osayande of Guardian Newspaper and a Pointer reporter Lucy were attacked by anti-protest protesters who arrived the location of the protest and chased away protesters amidst security agencies. The journalists were taking pictures and conducting interviews when the allegedly pro-government protesters smashed their gadgets and attacked them. The Press Freedom Officer of IPC, Melody Akinjiyan in a statement described the attacks as a troubling repeat of history stating that under no condition should journalists on legitimate duty be assaulted by law enforcement agencies and thugs. “It is regrettable that the incidents were recorded despite calls by IPC and other media groups on stakeholders and security agencies to ensure a safe environment for journalists covering the protests”, she said. Stating that “The rights of journalists to cover and report protests and other societal activities as guaranteed by the 1999 Nigeria Constitution and various regulatory frameworks have not been respected as expected”, she called on all concerned security agencies, especially the Nigeria Police Force to investigate the attacks and bring the perpetrators to justice. SGD:Melody AkinjiyanPress Freedom Officer, IPCmelodyakinjiyan@ipcng.org

Press Release

The Right to Peaceful Protest: A Pillar of Democratic Governance as Constitutionally Guaranteed

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29 July 2024 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The Right to Peaceful Protest: A Pillar of Democratic Governance as Constitutionally Guaranteed Abuja, Nigeria: In light of recent events and ongoing discussions surrounding the appropriateness of citizens expressing their dissatisfaction with government policies and actions, we, the undersigned civil society organisations, are compelled to reaffirm the fundamental right of citizens to peaceful protest as a fundamental pillar of democratic governance. This right is a cornerstone of any democratic society and a critical means for citizens to express their dissatisfaction, demand accountability, and advocate for change. Protesting is a legitimate form of expression enshrined in international human rights instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended), among others. It allows citizens to publicly voice their concerns, challenge injustices, and participate actively in the democratic process. Protests serve as a vital mechanism for holding leaders accountable and ensuring that government actions reflect the will and needs of the people. History has shown that protests can lead to significant changes in government policies, processes and practices, highlighting the power of collective action to address grievances and promote good governance. While the right to protest is a fundamental principle of democratic nations, we concede that it must be exercised peacefully and responsibly without violating the rights of others. Accordingly, we urge all parties engaged, including protest organisers, participants, and law enforcement agencies, to prioritise safety and the rule of law. Law enforcement has a duty to safeguard protesters while upholding public order. Demonstrators must avoid activities that might exacerbate tensions, cause unrest or threaten public safety. Attempts to suppress demonstrations through intimidation, excessive use of force, or unjust legal actions are unacceptable and counterproductive. Every protest is deemed peaceful, and if intelligence indicates otherwise, it is the role of the appropriate government agencies to identify such saboteurs and arrest them immediately. Arresting protest organisers shows a lack of understanding of the enemies of the state. We urge the Nigerian Judiciary and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to uphold the rights of all protesters and establish a mechanism to promptly address and dismiss oppressive charges that may arise from these protests. The demands include reducing the cost of living, curbing insecurity, reducing the cost of governance, electoral reform, judicial reform, and constitutional reform, which are all recurring themes in Nigeria’s journey towards a healthy democracy. We reaffirm our commitment to the principles of democracy and human rights and stand in solidarity with those who decided to exercise the right to peaceful protest. We encourage all citizens to actively participate in shaping a just and accountable society, and we call on all stakeholders to uphold the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Signed: 1. 21st Century Community Empowerment for Youth and Women Initiative 2. Accountability Lab Nigeria 3. Africa Institute for Energy Governance (AFIEGO) Uganda 4. BudgIT Foundation 5. Centre for Accountability and Inclusive Development (CAAID) 6. Centre for Inclusive Social Development (CISD) 7. Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) 8. Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) 9. Dataphyte Foundation 10. DigiCivic Initiative 11. Enough is Enough (EiE) Nigeria 12. Farnnel Women Foundation 13. Gee Foundation for Social Justice and Development 14. Global Rights 15. Health Education and Human Rights Advocacy Initiative (HEHRAI) 16. HIFWAC Relief 17. Hope Behind Bars Africa 18. Institutional and Sustainable Development Foundation ( ISDF) 19. International Peace and Civic Responsibility Centre (IPCRC) 20. International Press Centre (IPC) 21. Invictus Africa 22. Kilimanjaro Youth Foundation 23. Media Rights Agenda (MRA) 24. Mothers United and Mobilised 25. Nigeria Network of NGOs 26. Paradigm Initiative (PIN) 27. Policy Alert 28. Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) 29. Research Centre for Development Action 30. Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) 31. Sesor Empowerment Foundation 32. TechHer NG 33. The Meluibe Empowerment Foundation 34. We the People 35. WikkiTimes 36. Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC) 37. Yiaga Africa

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ABDUCTION OF TWO JOURNALISTS IN KADUNA: I-CSPJ CALLS FOR CONCERTED EFFORTS ON RELEASE

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ABDUCTION OF TWO JOURNALISTS IN KADUNA: I-CSPJ CALLS FOR CONCERTED EFFORTS ON RELEASE For immediate release, July 8, 2024 IPC’s Centre for the Safety and Protection of Journalists (I-CSPJ), Lagos-Nigeria is calling for a concerted effort towards the immediate release of Chairman of University Correspondents Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kaduna State Council, Alhaji AbdulGafar Alabelewe and Blueprint Newspapers reporter, AbdulRaheem Aodu, who were kidnapped alongside their wives and children in the night of Saturday, July 6, 2024 at their residence in Danhonu Community in Millennium City of Chikun LGA, Kaduna State. Information reaching, I-CSPJ reveals that, “one of the victims’ family members, who lived close to their house, Taofeeq Olayemi confirmed the incident saying the bandits attacked the community around 10:30pm on Saturday night and started shooting sporadically before kidnapping the victims.” “They first forced Aodu’s door open and picked him and his wife and left their sick daughter behind. Then, they entered Abdulgafar’s house through the fence and jumped into his house. They went straight into his bedroom and picked him, his wife and two of their kids and left immediately, the report revealed.” IPC Executive Director, Mr. Lanre Arogundade said: “The spate of insecurity in the country should be of serious concern to all adding that it is very disturbing that journalists and media practitioners have also become easy targets.” I-CSPJ enjoins the Kaduna State Government and relevant security agencies to do all they can to ensure that all the victims kidnapped are set free without being harmed in any way. I-CSPJ therefore appeals to other national, regional and international media freedom groups, freedom of expression organisations and human rights bodies to join in the clamour for their release and safety. SGD:Melody AkinjiyanPress Freedom Officer, IPCmelodyakinjiyan@ipcng.org

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IPC and CEMESO Host Two-Day Annual Stakeholders Meeting and Roundtable on Scorecard & Electoral Process Coverage

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Press Release IPC and CEMESO Host Two-Day Annual Stakeholders Meeting and Roundtable on Scorecard & Electoral Process Coverage For immediate release Lagos, Nigeria – July 6, 2024 The International Press Centre (IPC) and the Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), both implementing partners of the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EUSDGNII) project within Component 4: Support to Media are set to hold two virtual events. The first is a Roundtable on Issues, Trends and Challenges in Coverage of The Electoral Process while the second is an Annual Stakeholders’ Meeting to review the Media’s Performance Scorecard. The initiatives seek to enhance democracy in Nigeria by harnessing the media encompassing broadcast, print, and online platforms—to actively engage with and provide professional coverage of the electoral process. Scheduled to convene virtually on July 8 and 9, the inaugural meeting aims to tackle challenges related to misinformation and disinformation, examining the media’s role in upholding information integrity during the 2023 electoral processes and its impact on promoting voter education. The outcome of the deliberations will inform the development of novel insights aimed at fostering enhanced strategic collaborations and achieving more impactful outcomes leading up to the 2027 elections. The second meeting will evaluate the Media’s Performance Scorecard in the elections and processes, assessing the effectiveness of media interventions in achieving their intended objectives.  Key stakeholders, encompassing media professionals from print, broadcast, and online platforms, as well as prominent figures in the media industry, will participate. This meeting aims to foster dialogue, exchange experiences, and share success stories to further enhance media conduct at elections. The sessions will focus on key topics, including measures to elevate the professionalism of media professionals, strategies to combat electoral misinformation and disinformation, enriching the coverage of the electoral process, improving the dissemination of civic and voter education, fostering media awareness, utilising the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act to bolster accountability, strengthening the capabilities of broadcasting regulatory entities, and encouraging media involvement in advocating for the representation of women, youths, and marginalised groups in the political sphere. In a statement, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, the Executive Director of IPC said: “The initiatives provide a platform for diverse stakeholders including journalists, election officials, and civil society representatives to collaboratively address emerging issues such as misinformation, voter suppression, and evolving electoral laws which in turn foster greater understanding and promote best practices” Dr. Akin Akingbulu, Executive Director of CEMESO, said: “Both organisations are consistently exploring strategies that enhance transparency and accountability in media practices at elections”. “By evaluating critical metrics such as accuracy, fairness, and responsiveness to public concerns, stakeholders can gauge the media’s effectiveness in serving the public’s interest.” He added. These initiatives are supported by the European Union, highlighting its commitment to promoting democratic values and media integrity in Nigeria. For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Olutoyin Ayoade Communications Officer Component 4 (Support to Media) EUSDGN II Project tayoade@ipcng.org

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