The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has condemned the alleged assault of a journalist by police officers in Bauchi State and called for the immediate prosecution of those involved.
In a statement on Monday, Y.Z. Ya’u, Executive Director of CITAD, revealed that Albarka Radio reporter Mohammed Adamu was attacked while covering the Eid Durbar celebration in Bununu, Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area.
“Mr Adamu was beaten by multiple officers, resulting in injuries to his head and forcing him to seek medical attention,” the statement said.
CITAD described the incident as a “grave violation of press freedom and a direct attack on the rights of journalists in Nigeria.” The organisation stressed that journalists “play a critical role in informing the public and holding authorities to account,” warning that “any attempt to intimidate or harm them undermines democratic governance and the rule of law.”
“This incident is not isolated but reflects a troubling pattern of harassment and violence against journalists by security agencies,” the statement added.
CITAD demanded “an immediate, thorough, and transparent investigation into the assault, the identification and prosecution of all officers involved, adequate compensation and protection for the journalist, and clear directives and training for security agencies to respect and protect journalists in the course of their duties.”
The organisation also urged the Inspector-General of Police and relevant authorities to “take decisive action to end attacks on journalists.”
“Nigeria must remain a country where journalists can carry out their work without fear of intimidation, harassment, or violence. Protecting press freedom is essential to safeguarding democracy and the rights of all citizens,” CITAD warned.
