The International Press Centre (IPC) in Lagos, Nigeria, has denounced the assault on a journalist, Mathew Abgaje in Lagos.
Abgaje, a reporter with Punch newspaper, was reportedly assaulted by policemen on Monday, July 18, 2022, following an attempt to expose the policemen on illegal duty at Berger Bus-stop on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
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“Reports reaching the IPC Safety Alert Desk indicate that Agbaje was on his way to the office when he saw some policemen, about five of them, dragging a bus driver. He was recording the incident with his phone when the policemen pounced on him, despite showing them his identity card.” the IPC narrated in a press release signed by the IPC press freedom officer, Melody Lawal.
While condemning the act, the IPC further called on the state commissioner of police to investigate the matter and bring the perpetrators of the savage act to justice.
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“IPC totally condemns this abominable act by security operatives who are saddled with the responsibility of protecting lives and properties. Journalists must be treated with dignity because of the important responsibility they have to the citizens and society.” the statement added.
