Abuja: The International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to rein in state authorities and security agencies over persistent harassment of journalists, warning that impunity is eroding press freedom and undermining democratic accountability.
In a communique signed by its President, Musikilu Mojeed, and General Secretary, Ahmed Shekarau, after its 2025 Annual Conference and General Meeting in Abuja, the body lamented Nigeria’s fall in the Global Press Freedom Index, dropping ten places from 112 to 122 this year.
The two‑day event, attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima and Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, spotlighted the theme: “Addressing Media Repression in Nigeria: Safeguarding Press Freedom and Democratic Accountability.”
IPI Nigeria demanded urgent reforms of laws such as the CyberCrime Act and Criminal Defamation Law to align with global best practices on freedom of expression.
It also cited findings by Media Rights Agenda showing that government officials were responsible for nearly 74 per cent of attacks on journalists and media organisations between January and October 2025.
The institute’s “Book of Infamy” named Inspector General of Police Olukayode Egbetokun, Niger State Governor Umaru Bago, and Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno for acts of harassment and intimidation against journalists.
While the Police and Niger State government have made conciliatory moves, the Akwa Ibom government reportedly launched personal attacks on IPI Nigeria’s president and his publication, Premium Times.
Vice President Kashim Shettima pledged to intervene, assuring participants of the government’s commitment to safeguarding press freedom.
The communique also urged media organisations to invest in investigative journalism, called for better welfare packages for journalists, and commended the MacArthur Foundation for supporting media development in Nigeria.
IPI Nigeria expressed hope that “further attacks on journalists and media organisations would be a thing of the past,” stressing that protecting press freedom is essential to democratic accountability.