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COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED AT THE CONCLUSION OF THE MEDIA STAKEHOLDERS’ ROUNDTABLE ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, THE MEDIA, AND PRESS FREEDOM HELD MAY 7, 2025 .

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The International Press Centre (IPC) and the Association of Communication Scholars & Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), with support from IFEX, convened a Media Stakeholders’ Roundtable to commemorate World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) 2025, in alignment with the global theme set by UNESCO: “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media.” The Roundtable held within the IPC premises in Lagos-Nigeria brought together senior editors, journalists, media owners, academics, civil society actors, and policy advocates to engage in meaningful dialogue on the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI), press freedom, journalistic safety, and democratic governance. The participants welcomed the growing discourse on the implications of artificial intelligence on journalism practice and emphasised the urgent need for ethical and inclusive policy frameworks to guide the responsible adoption of AI technologies within Nigeria’s media space. Key Deliberations and Observations The Roundtable explored the dual nature of AI, acknowledging its significant potential to improve journalistic work through automation, data analysis, and content translation, while also cautioning against its threats to press freedom. These include the spread of disinformation, digital surveillance, algorithmic censorship, and economic displacement of media workers. Participants also noted with deep concern the deteriorating safety conditions of journalists in Nigeria drawing from the 2024 State of Press Freedom Report released by IPC’s Safety of Journalists Hub at the event, which recorded 45 attacks affecting 70 media practitioners, in 2024 with most violations attributed to security personnel while the violations ranged from physical assault and arbitrary detention to online harassment and denial of access. The Roundtable stressed that these assaults not only endanger individual journalists and their media outlets, but also undermine democracy, public interest journalism, and accountability in governance. Stakeholders resolved that the following measures are central to safeguarding press freedom amid the rise of AI technologies: Policy and Regulatory Frameworks Participants at the roundtable called on relevant government agencies to collaborate closely with media stakeholders in the development of comprehensive national guidelines for the governance of artificial intelligence in journalism. These guidelines, they emphasised, should prioritise ethical standards, ensure transparency in AI deployment, and safeguard the integrity and independence of journalistic practice. Additionally, participants urged institutions such as the Nigerian Press Council to take on a more proactive and strategic role in overseeing the ongoing digital transformation within the media sector, ensuring that technological advancement reinforces press freedom rather than undermines it. Educational Reform and Capacity Development The roundtable urged universities and journalism training institutions to undertake a comprehensive review and update of their curricula to reflect the evolving media landscape. This includes the integration of subjects such as artificial intelligence literacy, data journalism and digital safety to better equip future journalists for the demands of modern newsrooms. Furthermore, participants emphasised the need for ongoing, industry-led training and capacity-building programmes for practicing media professionals, with a focus on emerging technologies, misinformation and disinformation detection, and cybersecurity, to ensure they remain adaptive, informed, and resilient in the face of rapid technological change. Safety and Welfare of Journalists The need for fair labour practices within the media industry was also strongly emphasised. Participants underscored the importance of timely salary payments, provision of insurance coverage, and the creation of safe and supportive working environments particularly for journalists operating in high-risk or hostile settings. The discussion further highlighted the critical need for psycho-social support to address trauma experienced by media professionals, alongside access to digital safety tools and legal assistance. Media support organisations, notably the International Press Centre and Media Rights Agenda (MRA), were acknowledged as vital platforms for delivering these services and for advocating the rights and protection of journalists across the country. Strengthening Media Institutions Stakeholders stressed that there is an urgent need to build resilient and forward-looking media organisations capable of adapting to the challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. Participants called for greater collaboration between the media sector, academia, civil society, and the technology industry to develop journalism-centric AI tools and systems that uphold ethical standards and reinforce press freedom. They also advocated stronger institutional frameworks and internal policies that promote editorial independence, protect journalists’ rights, and encourage innovation. Media associations were urged to play a more active role in coordinating professional development, setting ethical benchmarks, and advocating supportive regulatory environments that enable the media to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital ecosystem. Support for Investigative and Public Interest Journalism Participants also noted the importance of prioritising journalistic forms that rely on human creativity, ethical judgment, and critical thinking particularly investigative and data-driven reporting. In the face of growing automation through artificial intelligence, participants agreed that these areas remain vital to holding power to account and serving the public interest. The roundtable also underscored the value of collaborative initiatives, such as the partnership between ACSPN and Dataphyte, which aim to enhance journalists’ analytical and technical capacities through targeted training and mentorship. Such efforts were seen as crucial to strengthening the depth, accuracy, and impact of journalism in an AI-influenced media environment. Conclusion The Roundtable concluded with a reaffirmation of collective commitment to defending press freedom, promoting ethical AI integration, and enhancing journalists’ safety in Nigeria. Participants underscored the necessity of a human-centred, transparent, and accountable approach to AI that serves the public interest and reinforces the role of a free press in a democratic society. The International Press Centre and the Association of Communication Scholars & Professionals of Nigeria extended their appreciation to all stakeholders in attendance and committed to continuing dialogue and partnership in addressing technological disruptions to the media sector. The organisers agreed to convene a follow-up stakeholders’ forum later in 2025 to assess progress on the implementation of recommendations and review emerging developments in the AI-media landscape. Signed:International Press Centre (IPC)Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN)

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Summary of 2024 Documentation of Attacks on Journalists in Nigeria

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Summary of 2024 Documentation of Attacks on Journalists in Nigeria No. Cases Reported from January 2024 – December 2024 Date of Attack Status of Cases   1. Men of the Abia State Police Command invaded the Abia Breaking News ABN TV in Umuahia and forcibly arrested a guest during a live programme. https://x.com/MobilePunch/status/1747536966147609013?s=08   16th January, 2024 The Commissioner of Police (CP) issued a public apology and the officers faced trial. https://thesun.ng/abia-tv-invasion-4-policemen-face-room-trial/         2. Kasarachi Aniagolu a reporter with Whistle Newspapers was unlawfully arrested, assaulted and detained and her working equipment confiscated by Officers of the Nigerian Police Force operating within the FCT, Abuja while performing her journalistic duties while filming a raid on Bureau de change (BDC) operators in Wuse Zone 4 https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2024/02/22/the-whistler-condemns-unlawful-detention-of-its-reporter-kasarachi-aniagolu/  21st February, 2024 The Whistle Newspapers only issued a statement to condemn the incident, but it was not taken up lawfully.           3. Tracy Suo Chappelle a reporter with Wazobia FM/Super Sport FM was physically assaulted and beaten to a pulp while driving home from work by four (4) occupants of a car that rammed in Tracy’s car from behind while observing a precautionary slow-down movement on the Lekki Expressway https://www.facebook.com/share/ej2yKrUUhfuJede2/?mibextid=oFDknk 29th February, 2024 The Sports Journalists Forum (SJF) and Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) issued statements to condemn the assault on their member and commended the prompt action of the Police is investigating the incident, but no further information was given. https://blueprint.ng/swan-demands-justice-for-assaulted-sports-writer-commiserates-with-kwara-chapter-over-loss-of-veteran-journalist/         4. Ebule Anthony Metsese, Editor-in-Chief of Fresh Angle International Newspaper alleged reported threats on his life as a result of controversial developments in Warri Kingdom and occasional patronage of the news medium by some persons https://www.facebook.com/share/p/B42n1q6ZCXdEmYMs/?mibextid=Nif5oz   2nd March, 2024 The case was only reported in the media and I-CSPJ among other stakeholders issued statements calling on security operatives to ensure his safety https://newsdotafrica.com/i-cspj-decries-threats-on-threats-on-journalist-ebule-anthony-metseses-life/         5. Segun Olatunji, Editor of FirstNews Online Newspaper was blindfolded, abducted and flown to the FCT from his home in Lagos State by military men on claims about certain stories that FirstNews had published. https://newspotng.com/how-soldiers-blindfolded-tortured-me-in-abuja-cell-abducted-editor/ 15th March, 2024 Segun Olatunji regained his freedom after spending nearly two weeks in the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) detention. His release followed sustained pressure by media stakeholders/bodies/groups who demanded the release of the abducted editor.         6. Bukky Shonibare, the Chair of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) Board of Trustees was threatened by the Nigeria Police Force to produce Fisayo Soyombo, FIJ’s Executive Director & Editor-in-Chief. https://businessday.ng/news/article/police-insist-fijs-bot-chair-must-produce-fisayo-soyombo-over-published-investigation/ 26th March, 2024 The case was only reported in the media.         7. Joshua Rogers, a Rivers Channels TV reporter was kidnapped while driving his official Channels TV branded car by gunmen close to his residence at Rumuosi in Port Harcourt. He was returning from his official assignment in government house. The gunmen demanded a N30million ransom for his release. https://newsonlineng.com/breaking-rivers-channels-tv-reporter-kidnapped-in-port-harcourt/ 11th April, 2024 Joshua Rogers was later released after 24hrs in captivity. https://www.thecable.ng/abducted-channels-tv-reporter-regains-freedom-after-24-hours-in-captivity/         8. Lanre Arogundade, the Executive Director of the International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos was harassed by the Department of State Services (DSS) officials at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos while he was preparing to board a late-night Air France flight to Berlin, Germany to participate in the respective general meetings and conferences of the African Freedom of Expression Exchange (AFEX) and the International Freedom of Expression Exchange (IFEX) https://saharareporters.com/2024/04/16/international-press-centre-condemns-dss-over-persistent-harassment-violation-rights 11th April, 2024 International Press Centre and other stakeholders issued press statements calling on the DSS to desist from consistent harassment of the Executive Director.           9. Dennis Agbo a reporter for Vanguard in Enugu escaped death by the whiskers after he and four (4) other persons were brutally attacked by armed youths from Neke Community in Isi -Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State. https://thenationonlineng.net/land-dispute-armed-youths-attack-journalist-four-others-in-enugu-community/ 21st April, 2024 The case was only reported in the media.         10. Daniel Ojukwu a journalist with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) was abducted and detained for days for alleged violation of the 2015 Cybercrime Act by the Nigerian Police. He was held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti in Lagos State https://thecjid.org/cwppf-condemns-arrest-and-detention-of-journalist-daniel-ojukwu-by-the-nigerian-police/ 1st May, 2024 The Coalition for Whistleblowers Protection & Press Freedom (CWPPF) which IPC is a member and other stakeholders issued press statements calling for the immediate release of the journalist. His release followed sustained pressure by media stakeholders who demanded his release.         11. Idris Yau a reporter with Abubakar Rimi Television (ARTV) was hit by a stray bullet during an event to mark the World Press Freedom Day inside the government house in Kano State. https://dailygistonline.com.ng/breaking-stray-bullet-hits-nigerian-journalist-inside-govt-house/ 3rd May, 2024 Police Officers stationed at the government house launched an investigation into the source of the gunshot as they were working to determine where it came. No further information was given.         12. Jamilu of Trust TV was unlawfully detained by Hisbah Officers and his phone confiscated at Katsina State. 15th May, 2024 Sufficient information was not provided.         13. Dayo Aiyetan, the Publisher of the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR) and reporter Nurudeen Akewushola were unlawfully detained for nine (9) hours by the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre at FCT, Abuja.  https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/05/icir-director-reporter-lawyers-detained-by-police/ 28th May, 2024 Dayo Aiyetan and Nurudeen Akewushola were released after nine (9) hours in detention.         14. Madu Onuorah, the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the Globalupfront Online Newspaper was whisked away by about ten (10) fully armed men of the Nigerian Police Force from his residence in Lugbe, Abuja. Police abduct another Editor in Abuja – The Shield Online! 22nd May, 2024 Media stakeholders including IPC issued press statements calling for his immediate release. He was later released after about 48hours in detention. https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/697658-after-about-48-hours-in-detention-police-free-globalupfront-editor-in-chief.html?tztc=1         15. Precious Eze, the Publisher of News Platform Online Newspaper was arrested and detained by Policemen at his

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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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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

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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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ABDUCTION OF GLOBALUPFRONT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:I-CSPJ CALLS FOR HIS IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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Press Release     For immediate release, May 23, 2024 IPC’s Centre for the Safety and Protection of Journalists (I-CSPJ), Lagos-Nigeria is calling for the immediate release of Globalupfront Editor-in-Chief, Madu Onuorah who was whisked away by men of the Nigerian Police Force at about 6p.m on Wednesday May 22, 2024, at his residence in Lugbe, FCT Abuja. Information reaching, I-CSPJ reveals that, “About ten fully-armed policemen stormed his residence in Lugbe, Abuja, in two Sienna buses.”   “He was arrested in the presence of his wife and children who fruitlessly demanded from the police why they were arresting the head of the family. He was not even allowed to contact his lawyer or any of his relations before he was whisked away to the Lugbe police station,” the report revealed. IPC’s Executive Director, Mr. Lanre Arogundade said: “The media once again is under attack. The rate at which journalists and media practitioners are being arrested is alarming and should be of serious concern to all.” “Anybody who has an issue against Madu Onuorah should approach the court of justice and not use the Police to unlawfully infringe his fundamental rights,” Arogundade further said. I-CSPJ calls on the Inspector General of Police to ensure the immediate and unconditional release of Madu Onuorah, who at the time of drafting this statement as not been released or charged to court. I-CSPJ also calls on other national, regional and international media freedom groups, freedom of expression organisations and human rights bodies to join in the clamour for a free press in Nigeria. SGD: Melody Akinjiyan Press Freedom Officer, IPC melodyakinjiyan@ipcng.org

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