Attack on Media Workers in Niger State Sparks Concerns Over Press Freedom
The International Press Institute (IPI) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the Niger state government's alleged infringement on the rights of journalists and media organisations. The institute, which is dedicated to promoting and protecting press freedom, expressed concern over the recent assault on Musa Mikail, a senior reporter with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). Mikail was attacked by private guards at a public event in Niger state on March 13, 2026, while covering a Ramadan Iftar at the palace of the Etsu Nupe in Bida.
The IPI has accused Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger state of taking actions that impede on the rights of journalists. The institute has cited the recent assault on Mikail as the latest in a series of incidents that have infringed on press freedom. The NTA staff had been covering the event with his cameraman when the governor's chief security officer, Shehu Abdullahi Maikano, approached them and asked them to move. Despite their explanation that they were not obstructing anyone and were carrying out their professional duties, the guards pushed Mikail and other security operatives attacked him, forcing him out of the event.
The IPI has urged President Tinubu to take immediate action to address the situation and ensure that the rights of journalists are protected in Niger state. The institute has expressed concern over the disturbing trend of blatant acts of violation of press freedom and hostilities toward journalists by Governor Bago and some officials under his administration.
President Tinubu must take concrete steps to address the growing concerns over press freedom in Niger state. Governor Bago's actions, including the recent assault on Musa Mikail, are a clear indication of the need for urgent intervention. The protection of journalists' rights is crucial for a functional democracy, and President Tinubu must ensure that the Niger state government respects the fundamental rights of media workers. The assault on Musa Mikail is not an isolated incident, and it is high time for President Tinubu to take a firm stance against such hostilities. The implications of this trend are far-reaching, and it is essential that President Tinubu acts swiftly to address the situation and protect the rights of journalists in Niger state.
