Police pledge support for journalists’ safety, press freedom

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a safe environment for journalists and promoting press freedom nationwide.

Speaking at the second Civic Space Guard Conference organised by the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) in collaboration with the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Police Spokesperson Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Olumuyiwa Adejobi affirmed that the NPF prioritises protecting journalists and facilitating free information flow.

Adejobi acknowledged the challenges Nigerian journalists face, noting a critical distinction between professional journalists and social media content creators.

He stressed that the NPF is committed to investigating threats, intimidation, and attacks against journalists and holding perpetrators accountable.

“Journalists must uphold high standards of ethics and professionalism,” Adejobi stated. “The police are duty-bound to investigate any threat to journalists, protect them from intimidation and violence, and ensure national security.”

The NPF spokesperson clarified that the police are “allies of journalism” and suggested that journalists should wear identifiable attire during public events to distinguish them from protesters and enhance their safety in volatile situations.

Additionally, Adejobi highlighted ongoing training efforts led by the Inspector General of Police, focusing on human relations and change management to build community trust and improve police-public interactions.