By Joy Odor
The International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos-Nigeria, has expressed deep concern over the continued erosion of press freedom in Nigeria, citing recent cases of journalist harassment, detention, and murder.
In a statement issued through its Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) Hub, the IPC revealed alarming findings from its press freedom monitoring report covering January to June 2025.
The report highlights a disturbing trend of increasing hostility toward journalists and independent media across the country.
According to the IPC, three serious incidents between June and July further underscore the deteriorating environment for press freedom:
1. Prolonged Detention of Dr. Tekena Amieyeofori – A former reporter with Africa Independent Television (AIT), Dr. Amieyeofori has been held by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Port Harcourt.
His detention is allegedly linked to his reporting on corruption within the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).
2. Arrest of Buhari Olanrewaju Ahmed – The investigative journalist is currently in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Kwara State Police Command in Ilorin.
He was reportedly arrested for condemning a violent attack on peaceful protesters.
3. Murder of Photojournalist Ayo Aiyepekun – A photojournalist with Inside Story in Lokoja, Kogi State, Aiyepekun was killed on July 22 at his residence, which also housed the publication’s office.
Reacting to the incidents, IPC’s Executive Director, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, condemned the continued clampdown on media professionals and noted a contradiction between the President’s promise of tolerance and the reality on the ground.
“We are deeply worried about the continuous clampdown on press freedom under this present administration. “The restrictions on journalists’ ability to perform their duties and the frequent violations of their constitutional rights are highly condemnable. These actions contradict the President’s Democracy Day pledge to uphold criticism and democratic values” Arogundade said.
The IPC-SPJ Hub called for immediate and thorough investigations into the reported cases, and for an end to all forms of intimidation, harassment, and violence against journalists and media outlets.
Press Freedom Officer of the IPC, Melody Akinjiyan, emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to press freedom, stating, “A free and independent press is essential for the survival of democracy and the protection of human rights.”
The IPC reiterated its resolve to continue monitoring press freedom violations and advocating for justice for journalists across Nigeria.
