The Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has called on the newly appointed Acting Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, to prioritise the protection of press freedom.
In a statement signed by its President, Musikilu Mojeed, and Legal Adviser, Tobi Soniyi, the institute urged Disu to also ensure the safety of journalists across the country.
The institute also urged Disu to immediately end what it described as a pattern of harassment, intimidation and attacks against journalists.
“Under the previous leadership, journalists were repeatedly harassed, unlawfully detained and, in some cases, assaulted while carrying out their constitutional duties.
“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.”
According to them, the IPI Nigeria therefore expects the new Inspector-General to ensure that officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force respect rights at all times.
“We call on the new IGP to end all forms of harassment, intimidation and unlawful detention of journalists, review and withdraw pending cases that targeted Journalists for carrying out legitimate professional duties.
“He should institute a comprehensive reorientation programme for police personnel focused on press freedom and broader human rights obligations.”
The officials urged Disu to establish clear communication channels between the police leadership and media stakeholders to prevent and resolve conflicts.
“Due to persistent violations under the previous administration, IPI Nigeria was compelled to include Mr Egbetokun in its “Book of Infamy”.
“This is a record of individuals and institutions whose actions or inaction promoted or facilitated attacks on press freedom in Nigeria,” they said.
They therefore urged Disu to chart a different course and rebuild trust between the police and the media.
According to them, 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.”
They explained that the roles of the police and the media in a democratic society were complementary, not adversarial.
They reiterated IPI Nigeria’s 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.
“We wish 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,” they said.
