GOCOP slams security forces over attacks on journalists during protests

GOCOP slams security forces over attacks on journalists during protests

The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) has vehemently condemned the series of attacks on journalists covering the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests across Nigeria, labeling the actions of security agents as “undemocratic and repressive.”

In a statement released on Friday, GOCOP expressed deep concern over the growing harassment of media personnel. “Journalists are partners in national development and critical stakeholders in the advancement of democracy and civil liberties,” said GOCOP President, Ms. Maureen Chigbo. “They deserve to be protected, not suppressed.”

Highlighting the alarming number of incidents, GOCOP noted that over 30 journalists have been assaulted since the protests began on August 1. Media outlets affected include Premium Times, Daily Independent, Punch, TVC News, Guardian, and Pointer newspaper, among others, with reports of seized or destroyed equipment such as phones and cameras.

Mr. Collins Edomaruse, GOCOP’s General-Secretary, emphasized the essential role of the press in society. “The media has the capacity to support peace and reconciliation processes among political actors and various ethnic nationalities in the country,” he stated. “It’s imperative that journalists are allowed to play their constitutional role without fear of intimidation.”

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While acknowledging the right of citizens to protest, GOCOP urged demonstrators to maintain peace. “On no account should any protest go beyond the bounds of peace and turn violent, thereby creating opportunities for looters and hoodlums,” Chigbo warned.

The organisation also condemned the actions of certain individuals collaborating with foreigners to distribute and fly Russian flags during the protests, calling for unconstitutional changes in government. “Such acts are not only subversive but a direct affront on the sovereignty of the nation,” Edomaruse remarked.

Appealing directly to President Bola Tinubu, known for his long-standing advocacy for democracy and media freedom, GOCOP called for immediate action. “We urge President Tinubu to prevail on the Service Chiefs and the Inspector General of Police to stop forthwith any form of harassment, intimidation, attack, and arrest of journalists legitimately discharging their constitutionally assigned duties,” Chigbo implored. “Media suppression not only projects Nigeria in a bad light but also portrays the government as a dictatorship in a democracy.”

Despite the challenges, GOCOP encouraged journalists to remain steadfast, operating within the realms of professionalism, fairness, and factual reporting.

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