Chidinma Iroegbu
The International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria has called for urgent federal intervention over alleged violations of press freedom in Niger State, urging Bola Ahmed Tinubu to caution Governor Mohammed Umar Bago.
The organisation also asked the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to investigate and sanction the governor’s Chief Security Officer over the assault of a journalist.
IPI Nigeria made the demand in a statement jointly signed by its Deputy President, Fidelis Mbah, and Legal Adviser, Tobi Soniyi.
The group cited the attack on Musa Mikail, a senior reporter with the Nigerian Television Authority, as the latest incident.
Mikail was reportedly assaulted on March 13, 2026, while covering a Ramadan Iftar at the Etsu Nupe’s palace in Bida.
He alleged that the governor’s CSO, Shehu Abdullahi Maikano, ordered his removal from the venue.
“I explained that we were not obstructing anyone… Despite this, he pushed me, and other security operatives attacked me and forced me out,” Mikail said.
IPI described the incident as part of a pattern of hostility toward journalists and interference with media work in the state.
It referenced previous cases, including the detention of Prestige FM reporter Ahmed Isah Sakpe and the shutdown of Badeggi FM over alleged inciting broadcasts.
The group also cited incidents involving Ibrahim Ndamitso and Yakubu Mustapha Bina, who were questioned by security agencies following their reports.
IPI noted that these developments led to Governor Bago’s inclusion in its “Book of Infamy” in December 2025 for alleged press freedom violations.
The organisation stressed the need for accountability, stating that attacks on journalists undermine democracy and must be addressed promptly.