The Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has condemned in strong terms the deployment of excessive force against Journalists covering the nationwide protests.

Recall that on Saturday, August 3, 2024, several Journalists covering the #EndBadGovernance protests were shot at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja by hooded security agents. The Journalists narrowly escaped unhurt, but bullets damaged one of their vehicles. The shooting happened at the main entrance of the stadium.

The IPI Nigeria in a statement jointly signed by its President, Musikilu Mojeed and Legal Adviser Tobi Soniyi, respectively condemned the act, arguing that the shooting appeared premeditated, as the Journalists were particularly targeted and shot at twice within minutes.

According to the Institute, the security operatives knew where the Journalists converged and that many of them wore vests, with the word ‘PRESS’ boldly inscribed on them, while many had cameras and drove vehicles with PRESS inscriptions on them.

The statement reads in part: “The firing of what is suspected to be live ammunition is unacceptable and is strongly condemned. Saturday’s shooting is even more worrisome as it came a day after the Chief of Defence Staff said on live television that Journalists should stop giving protesters publicity.

“The IPI hereby demands an immediate investigation of the shooting incident at the stadium where Journalists were targeted. The officers involved, reported to be personnel of the Police and the Directorate of State Service DSS, should be identified and punished.

“The media has a responsibility to cover the ongoing protests across the country, and Journalists must be allowed to carry out their constitutionally mandated role without interference and intimidation by anyone.

“Targeting and shooting at Journalists carrying out their lawful duties is tantamount to taking a wild shot at our democracy and it should be condemned by all.”