International Press Centre Condemns Attack on News Central Reporters and Cameraman During Protests
The International Press Centre (IPC) in Lagos has strongly condemned the assault on News Central reporters and cameraman by thugs at Freedom Park, Ojota during recent hunger protests.
The attack has raised serious concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists covering the nationwide demonstrations.
Managing Director of News Central TV, Mr. Kayode Akintemi, met with Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, to express concerns over the incident. IPC Press Freedom Officer, Melody Akinjiyan, highlighted the growing number of attacks on journalists since the protests began, calling for urgent action to protect media personnel.
In a statement, Akinjiyan detailed the assault: “The thugs, numbering more than ten, attacked the News Central Television crew who went to the venue to monitor the situation.
Initially directed by police to leave the park, the crew relocated to a distant location to continue their live broadcast. During this time, they were confronted by hoodlums wielding sticks and shovels. The thugs assaulted several reporters, forcing them to flee.”
The incident prompted the Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, to order an immediate investigation.
According to a report on Pulse.ng, he directed the investigating team to identify and prosecute the perpetrators.
This directive followed the submission of an official complaint by News Central MD, Kayode Akintemi, at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja.
Akintemi emphasized the essential role of journalists in a democratic society and condemned the brazen assault on media personnel performing their constitutional duties. He urged the police to ensure the safety and security of journalists.
Responding to Akintemi’s concerns, CP Fayoade assured that the command would thoroughly investigate the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The IPC has reiterated its call for security agencies to uphold press freedom and ensure the safety of journalists.
They have urged the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State to follow through on his pledge to apprehend and prosecute the thugs responsible for the assault and to investigate the policemen who failed to protect the journalists.
