2023 Elections: IPI seeks increased protection of press freedom
As Nigerians prepare to go to the polls next month, the International Press Institute IPI, has reiterated its call for increased protection of journalists by all stakeholders involved in the elections process, particularly political figures, political party supporters, and security forces.
IPI’s Nigerian National Committee Chair, Musikilu Mojeed made the call on Tuesday via the organisation’s website.
‘’We urge Nigerian authorities to keep the promise they made to IPI Nigeria by calling the country’s security agencies and political elites to order” Mojeed appealed.
He noted that the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed; the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba; the Director General of the State Security Service, Yusuf Bichi, had assured the IPI last year that steps would be taken to eradicate attacks on journalists.
Musikilu Mojeed further added: “We are reminding the authorities to keep their word now and at all times because IPI Nigeria is more determined now, than ever before, to hold anyone who engages in or encourages attacks on journalists to account.”
In the same vein, IPI Director of Advocacy Amy Brouillette also called on authorities to ensure that journalists are free to do their work and in a safe and protected environment.
”As Nigeria approaches elections, authorities and political leaders must ensure that the press is free and safe to do their work of disseminating news and information, which is indispensable for citizens to be informed as they head to cast their vote’, she said.
N.O
