The Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria), has called on the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Mr Tunji Disu, to prioritise the protection of press freedom and ensure the safety of Journalists across the country.
It noted that the roles of the police and the media in a democratic society are complementary, not adversarial, thus reiterated its readiness to engage constructively with the new leadership of the Nigeria Police Force to address areas of concern and promote a mutually respectful relationship between law enforcement and the media.
This was as IPI Nigeria tasked Acting IGP Disu to immediately end the pattern of harassment, intimidation and attacks against Journalists that characterised the tenure of his predecessor, Mr Kayode Egbetokun.
A statement by Musikilu Mojeed and Tobi Soniyi, IPI Nigeria President and Legal Adviser respectively, noted that under the previous leadership of the Nigeria Police Force, Journalists were repeatedly harassed, unlawfully detained and, in some cases, assaulted while carrying out their constitutional duties.
The statement said that the police, as a critical institution in a democratic society, has a constitutional responsibility to uphold the fundamental rights of all Nigerians, including the right to freedom of expression and of the press.
IPI Nigeria said it expects the Acting Inspector-General of Police to ensure that officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force respect these rights at all times.
IPI Nigeria particularly called on Mr Disu to end all forms of harassment, intimidation and unlawful detention of Journalists as well as review and withdraw pending cases that target Journalists for carrying out legitimate professional duties.
IPI Nigeria also appealed to the Acting IGP to institute a comprehensive reorientation programme for police personnel focused on press freedom and broader human rights obligations and also establish clear communication channels between the police leadership and media stakeholders to prevent and resolve conflicts.
IPI Nigeria further said; “Due to persistent violations under the previous administration, IPI Nigeria was compelled to include Mr Egbetokun in its “Book of Infamy”—a record of individuals and institutions whose actions or inaction promoted or facilitated attacks on press freedom in Nigeria”.
The Institute also urged Mr Disu to chart a different course and rebuild trust between the police and the media.
It said; “Respect for press freedom is essential to sustaining Nigeria’s democracy. A free and independent press strengthens accountability, enhances transparency and supports law enforcement efforts by informing the public responsibly”.
IPI Nigeria wished Mr Tunji Disu a successful and impactful tenure and urge him to seize this opportunity to restore confidence in the police’s commitment to democratic values and the rule of law.
