The International Press Centre (IPC) has condemned the humiliation of journalists during the Osun State governorship election which ended on Thursday September 27, 2018, calling for an apology from the Nigeria Police Force.
A press released by IPC’s Director, Mr. Lanre Arogundade described as unfortunate the various humiliations faced by journalists during the Osun State governorship election saying it was an impediment on democracy.
The release signed by Safety Desk Officer IPC, Melody Akinjiyan reads:
“According to Report from Premium Times, 22nd September, 2018 “A mob attacked Oladipo Abiodun a Premium Times election observer at CAC, Ward 3 polling unit at Isokan Local Government Area of Osun State. He was harassed by some persons because they suspected he was taking pictures. Mr. Abiodun’s jacket was torn and his tag was destroyed by hoodlums.”
“Kemi Busari, a Premium Times journalist who covered the Osun rerun election, was briefly arrested by the police this morning for taking pictures at Polling Unit one, Ward 8, Orolu Local Government Area. Mr. Busari who arrived the polling unit at about 7.40a.m thought it fit to capture the voting process, but this landed him in police custody.”
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“Some journalists were sent back mid-way on their journey to cover the rerun election in Ifon Osun, Orolu Local Government Area. They were sent back by police officers who were on the spot to barricade the entrance to the polling unit. The incident happened around 11.30a.m.”
“The barred journalists were from diverse platforms such as Premium Times, The Cable, Sahara Reporters and some local media.
“The various humiliations faced by journalists during the Osun State governorship election was very unfortunate and an impediment on democracy. The various incidents only portray what is likely going to occur during the forthcoming general election if immediate actions are not taken.
“We therefore call on all media stakeholders and international agencies to dialogue and chart the way forward for a peaceful environment for journalists to carry out their responsibilities during the general elections.
“IPC once again condemns the humiliation of journalists in the just concluded Osun State governorship election, and demands a public apology from the Nigeria Police Force.”
