Attack on Press Freedom: International Press Centre Demands Investigation into EFCC Officials’ Conduct
The International Press Centre (IPC) has condemned a recent incident where officials from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) stormed Urban Radio Station (94.5FM) in Enugu, enjoining the anchor of an interactive program, PRIME TIME, and intimidating staff. The IPC has called for an immediate investigation and prosecution of the EFCC officials involved, describing the incident as "a despicable assault on the media and a blatant abuse of power."
The incident, which occurred on the evening of October 14, 2024, saw EFCC officials overpowering the station’s staff, forcing them to sit on the floor, taking their phones, and whisking away the anchor of the live program. This act of aggression is just one of several recent attacks on journalists, suggesting that the EFCC and other security agencies have resorted to extra-judicial jungle tactics to address their grievances, according to the IPC.
The group is urging EFCC Chairman Olanipekun Olukoye to launch a thorough investigation into the invasion and ensure that the officers involved are prosecuted and held accountable for their unprofessional conduct. Additionally, the IPC is calling on the EFCC to provide additional training for its personnel on the constitutional boundaries of their authority.
The IPC has also condemned a recent attack on journalists in Bayelsa State, which occurred during a press briefing organized by the Sagbama Local Government Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yenagoa. In this attack, thugs reportedly injured several journalists.
The IPC reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the protection of journalists and holding those responsible for attacks on the press accountable. The group hopes that these incidents will serve as a warning to other officers, emphasizing the importance of upholding press freedom and respecting the rights and safety of journalists.
