Startrend International Magazine For Your Latest News And Entertainment Gists
ABUJA, FCT, NIGERIA – The Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has once again raised concerns about the safety of journalists in the country.
This alarm follows the reported abduction of Daniel Ojukwu, a journalist affiliated with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ).
Reports indicate that Ojukwu was taken into custody by the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) of the Inspector General of Police and is currently detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti in Lagos.
IPI Nigeria vehemently condemns this abduction and urges the Inspector General of Police to immediately order the release of Mr. Ojukwu.
In a release jointly e-signed by Musikilu Mojeed President, IPI Nigeria and Tobi Soniyi, Legal Adviser/Chair, Advocacy Committee, IPI Nigeria and made available to the media, stated that “ This incident, occurring during a time when the world celebrates press freedom, sheds light on the stance and dedication of law enforcement agencies in Nigeria towards upholding press freedom.
“Just a few weeks ago, the Nigerian military similarly apprehended a journalist – Mr. Segun Olatunji in a manner reminiscent of Gestapo tactics in Lagos, subsequently transporting him to Abuja under undignified conditions, potentially violating his rights to dignity and expression.
“The recurrence of such incidents suggests a troubling pattern indicating not only a tolerance but an endorsement of press freedom suppression by the administration of President Bola Tinubu, contradicting assurances made during the president’s inauguration speech regarding the upholding of fundamental human rights.
“It is essential to reiterate that in a democratic society, recourse against journalists should be sought through due process.
“The arbitrary abduction of a journalist on the orders of the Inspector General of Police, solely based on his position as the head of the Nigeria Police Force, constitutes an abuse of power and office.
“IPI Nigeria calls upon President Tinubu to hold the Inspector General of Police accountable for his actions, as leadership by example is imperative. No individual is above the law.
“Perpetrators of human rights violations continue to operate with impunity, underscoring the urgency of holding those responsible for suppressing freedom of expression accountable.
“Daniel Ojukwu must be released without delay, or else Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, will face inclusion in IPI Nigeria’s register of dishonour, labeled an adversary of the media and journalists. Such inclusion carries significant consequences extending beyond Nigeria’s borders.
