The International Press Institute Nigeria (IPI Nigeria) has made a strong appeal to Acting Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu, to prioritize safeguarding press freedom and putting an end to the ongoing pattern of harassment, intimidation, and attacks against journalists in the country.
Following his promotion by President Tinubu on Tuesday, Mr. Disu assured reporters that the 'era of intimidation is over.'
In an official statement released on Wednesday and co-signed by President Musikilu Mojeed and Legal Adviser Tobi Soniyi, IPI Nigeria urged Mr. Disu to ensure journalists’ safety and uphold their constitutional rights.
The organization highlighted that the provisions of Mr. Disu’s predecessor, Kayode Egbetokun, were tainted with frequent police harassment, wrongful detentions, and in some unfortunate cases, assaults on journalists during their professional activities.
Reports indicated that at least 24 journalists faced police harassment under Mr. Egbetokun's term, prompting IPI Nigeria to publicly blacklist him along with two other officials last year.
“The police force, as a pivotal entity in a democratic framework, bears the constitutional duty to uphold the fundamental rights of all citizens, which includes the freedoms of expression and the press,” IPI Nigeria stated.
The organization called upon the newly appointed police chief to put an immediate stop to all forms of harassment and intimidation against journalists, and to retract any ongoing legal actions aimed at media personnel performing their legitimate duties.
Additionally, IPI Nigeria advocated for the implementation of an extensive reorientation program for Nigeria Police Force officers focusing on press freedom and broader human rights responsibilities.
They also stressed the importance of establishing effective communication channels between the police leadership and the media, to mitigate and resolve potential conflicts.
Citing prolonged violations under the preceding administration, IPI Nigeria disclosed having included Mr. Egbetokun in their Book of Infamy—a record of individuals and entities whose actions have fostered or allowed assaults on press freedom in Nigeria.
The organization emphasized the need for Mr. Disu to take a different direction and restore trust between the police and journalists, stating that respect for press freedom is critical for preserving Nigeria’s democracy.
“A free and independent press is fundamental to a healthy society. It enhances accountability, supports transparency, and bolsters law enforcement operations through responsible public information,” the statement highlighted.
IPI Nigeria reiterated its willingness to constructively engage with the new leadership of the Nigeria Police Force to address key issues and foster a respectful partnership between law enforcement and the media.
Wishing Mr. Disu a fruitful tenure, the group urged him to use this opportunity to reinforce public trust in the police's allegiance to democratic values and the rule of law.
Mr. Disu's appointment comes just 48 days prior to his retirement, as the law stipulates officers retire upon reaching 60 years of age or after completing 35 years in service. Mr. Disu will turn 60 on April 13, but he will not be retired at that time.
Notably, the National Assembly amended the Police Act, allowing Inspectors General of Police to serve full four-year terms regardless of age or length of service—an adjustment that also enabled Mr. Egbetokun to complete his term until his abrupt dismissal.
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