KEY POINTS
- SERAP demands immediate police investigation.
- Journalist allegedly assaulted at palace event.
- Group warns against press intimidation.
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has called on Bola Tinubu to order an immediate journalist assault probe following an alleged attack in Niger State. The group said swift action would reinforce accountability and deter further abuse against media professionals.
In a statement dated March 24, SERAP urged the Nigeria Police Force to investigate the reported assault on Musa Mikail. The journalist assault probe, it said, must be thorough and transparent to establish responsibility and uphold the rule of law.
Calls for accountability grow
The incident reportedly occurred on March 13 during a Ramadan Iftar event in Bida. According to accounts, private security personnel allegedly carried out the assault while Mikail covered activities at the palace of the Etsu Nupe.
SERAP linked the development to officials within the Niger State government, noting that allegations point to the involvement of security aides. Therefore, the organization insisted that authorities must examine all roles, including those of senior officials, as part of the journalist assault probe.
Moreover, the group stressed that no public office holder stands above the law. It added that any person found culpable should face disciplinary action or prosecution, while the victim should receive compensation and access to justice.
Press freedom concerns deepen
SERAP warned that repeated attacks on journalists threaten democratic accountability. It argued that intimidation of the press weakens public trust and undermines governance, especially when incidents go unpunished.
The organization also cited constitutional protections, noting that freedom of expression remains guaranteed under Nigerian law. In addition, it referenced international obligations requiring authorities to safeguard journalists from harm.
Meanwhile, observers say the outcome of the journalist assault probe could shape public confidence in law enforcement. If handled decisively, it may signal stronger protections for media workers. However, failure to act could reinforce concerns about impunity.
SERAP maintained that protecting journalists is essential to sustaining democracy. It concluded that accountability in this case will set an important precedent for press freedom in Nigeria.
