THE CENTRE for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has issued a strong condemnation following an alleged assault on a journalist by police officers during the Eid Durbar celebration in Bununu, Tafawa Balewa LGA, Bauchi State.
According to a statement released by the group’s Executive Director, Y. Z. Ya’u, Albarka Radio reporter, Mohammed Adamu, was physically assaulted by officers while attempting to carry out his professional duties at the public event.
The incident occurred when Mr. Adamu sought to access the designated media area to provide coverage of the festivities. He was reportedly stopped by a team of police officers led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Jamilu Kabir.
Witnesses and the victim’s account state that despite Mr. Adamu identifying himself as a member of the press, multiple officers allegedly beat him, inflicting injuries to his head that subsequently required medical attention.
In its statement, CITAD described the act as a grave violation of press freedom and a direct attack on the fundamental rights of journalists in Nigeria.
The organisation emphasised that the role of journalists is critical to informing the public and ensuring governmental accountability, arguing that intimidating the press undermines democratic governance and the rule of law.
The rights group noted that the incident reflects a troubling pattern of harassment and violence against media professionals by security agencies, warning that such actions create a climate of fear that restricts the ability of the media to operate freely.
CITAD has therefore demanded for an immediate, thorough, and transparent investigation into the incident, the identification and prosecution of the officers involved, and adequate compensation and protection for the assaulted journalist.
CITAD also called on the Inspector-General of Police and other relevant authorities to issue clear directives and provide training for security agencies to ensure that journalists are respected and protected while performing their duties.
“Nigeria must remain a country where journalists can carry out their work without fear of intimidation, harassment, or violence,” the statement read. “Protecting press freedom is essential to safeguarding democracy and the rights of all citizens.”
