A disturbing incident has been reported in Kebbi State, Nigeria, where a Department of State Service (DSS) officer allegedly assaulted a journalist, Mallam Shuaibu Zubair, over an unpaid electricity bill.
The DSS officer, who was supposed to pay N5,000, only paid N4,000, prompting other tenants to confront him. The situation escalated, with the DSS officer slapping Zubair six times and threatening to kill him, boasting that nothing would happen as a result of his actions.
This incident highlights concerns about the safety of journalists in Nigeria, particularly during interactions with law enforcement and government officials.
In fact, at least 28 journalists were harassed, beaten, or denied access while covering the Nigerian state elections in March 2023.
Incidents of Journalist Harassment in Nigeria
Physical Assault: Journalists have been physically attacked while covering elections, with some sustaining serious injuries.
Intimidation: Journalists have been intimidated and threatened by law enforcement and government officials.
Denial of Access: Journalists have been denied access to polling stations and other areas where elections are being held.
These incidents underscore the need for increased protection and safety measures for journalists in Nigeria.
Source: Vanguard
