IPC Condemns Attack on Kano Journalists, Tasks Security Agencies on Protection
Oru Leonard
The Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) Hub of the International Press Centre (IPC) has condemned the attack on journalists returning from coverage of an All Progressives Congress (APC) rally at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.
The incident reportedly occurred on Saturday, September 5, 2026, when a vehicle conveying four Radio Nigeria Pyramid FM staff, a journalist from Guarantee Radio and another journalist from Daily Trust was attacked by hoodlums.
According to reports, the attackers repeatedly hit the vehicle with weapons, causing injuries to the driver, while some of the journalists were reportedly hit by broken glass from the damaged vehicle.
The Executive Director of IPC, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, described the incident as a serious concern and a threat to press freedom, particularly given the damage inflicted on a Radio Nigeria Pyramid FM vehicle.
Arogundade said the attack was particularly disturbing as political campaigns and rallies had only recently commenced, warning that journalists should not be subjected to attacks as political activities increase ahead of the general elections.
The SPJ Hub therefore called on security agencies to be deliberate and proactive in safeguarding journalists deployed to cover political activities, particularly during large gatherings where media workers may face heightened risks.
The organisation also urged media organisations and journalists covering elections to strengthen their safety consciousness and conduct security assessments when reporting electoral and political activities.
The IPC said protecting journalists during political rallies was essential to safeguarding press freedom and ensuring that the media could perform its role of informing the public without intimidation or violence.
