International Press Institute raises alarm over rising media repression in Nigeria

The International Press Institute (IPI, Nigeria Chapter has raised concern over the recent cases of media repression in the country, citing the recent disturbing instances of banning of live political programme in Kano State and the arrest of a journalist in Ekiti State.

Penpushing reports that President of the global body committed to protecting press freedom and the free flow of information, Musikilu Mojeed raised the alarm while speaking at a dinner organised by the institute, to honour one of its members and a retired Director, Digital Media, Voice of Nigeria (VON) Hajia Hadiza Hussaina Sani in Abuja,

The President of the Institute who doubles as Editor-in-Chief, Premium Times also frowned at Akwa Ibom State Government recent eviction of Channels TV crew, a journalist and a cameraman, from the press centre inside Government House, Uyo

“The repressive action was taken, over the publication of a video clip, where the governor, eventually confirmed he is defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC)’, he said.

“A journalist with FIJ, Sodiq Atanda was recently arrested by the police in Ekiti State. A former “ThisDay” employee, Azuka Ogujiuba, was reportedly arrested and harassed by the Police for doing her job.  Every single day you wake up, it is one form of harassment or the other against the media’, Mojeed added.

Penpushing further reports that he, called for continued advocacy to protect press freedom and promote independent journalism, stressing that, efforts to protect journalists’ rights and promote independent journalism are crucial in Nigeria’s media landscape.

The President on the celebration said Sani’s retirement came at a critical time when the media sector in Nigeria is facing numerous challenges, including harassment, arrests, and censorship.

Penpushing also reports that he noted Sani’s significant contributions to the institute, Nigeria, including her role in organising its World Congress in Nigeria in 2018, as well as her subsequent active participation in various committees.

The President appealed to the celebrator to continue advocating for press freedom and supporting the work of Institute in Nigeria, emphasising that her expertise and experience are invaluable to the organisation.

Penpushing reports that Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Jibrin Ndace, in his remarks expressed gratitude to the Institute for recognising Sani’s contributions, stating that the gesture also reflected positively on the entire Voice of Nigeria (VON) team.

The Director General described Sani as a professional journalist who seamlessly transitioned from traditional journalism to modern digital practices, leading the digital department with innovation which kept Voice of Nigeria (VON) at the forefront of public media institutions and global competitiveness.

Penpushing further reports that he commended her experience, passion, and love for journalism, which he said, enabled her to excel in her role and serve as a role model for younger journalists.

The Voice of Nigeria (VON) boss emphasised that, journalism is a marathon, not a sprint, pointing out that Sani’s long-standing career is a testament to her dedication and commitment to the profession.

Penpushing also reports that, former spokesman to late President Muhammadu Buhari, Garba Shehu described the retirement of Sani as a significant loss for the organisation but a potential gain for other sectors of the journalism profession.

The veteran journalist praised Sanni, as a strong and young professional with much to contribute to journalism, highlighting her unique qualities, particularly her social responsibility, selflessness, and commitment to helping others to succeed.

Penpushing reports that Shehu emphasized, the retiree embodies the principles of servant leadership, a concept often touted by politicians but rarely exemplified, stressing that her legacy as a role model for young journalists and a champion of socially responsible journalism will continue to inspire others in the field,

The former President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abdulwaheed Odusile commended Sani’s dedication and expertise, which he said, have earned her recognition and respect in the industry.

Penpushing further reports that the retiree in her remarks expressed gratitude to God and her family for their support throughout her 34 years career in public service, and reflecting on the challenges and rewards of her time in service, highlighted the importance of dedication, clear vision, and family support.

The retired Director emphasised the need for media professionals to adapt to new technologies and appreciate their impact on the industry and the society, stressing that, telling a good story starts with understanding oneself and one’s audience.

Penpushing also reports that Sani despite retiring from active public service, assured to remain active in the media space, pursuing research, teaching, writing, and lecturing.

“It has been a very difficult, challenging, interesting and rewarding 34 years in service. It’s not easy. You have new and great ideas, but some people don’t understand, so they find it a bit difficult to agree with you’, she stated.

“But if you are consistent, if you have a clear vision of what you want to achieve, and you are dedicated and resolute, the sky is not the limit. I have pulled out from active public service, but have not retired.

‘My brain is still exceptionally active, and I plan to utilise it. I’ll be doing a lot of research work and writing, and I won’t get tired of seeing myself in the media space,” she said.

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