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May 12, 2025 – Nigeria –
In 2024, press freedom in Nigeria took a troubling downturn as at least 56 journalists were attacked, harassed, or detained while covering protests and unrest across the country, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The sharp rise in violence against the press has drawn international condemnation and raised alarm about the state of media freedom in Africa’s most populous country.
The incidents, which were concentrated during waves of protests in the latter half of 2024, included cases of physical assault, arbitrary arrests, equipment seizures, and intimidation by both security forces and political actors. RSF stated that many journalists were deliberately targeted while filming or broadcasting demonstrations, especially those critical of the government or reporting on security crackdowns.
A notable pattern emerged in which police and military officers reportedly acted with impunity, disrupting the work of journalists and media organizations. Several reporters were allegedly beaten or detained without charge, while others were forced to delete footage. These incidents were not isolated; rather, they indicated a systemic attempt to limit independent reporting and control the narrative around civil unrest.
The CPJ’s report emphasized that media professionals were not only attacked on the ground but also faced increased digital harassment and surveillance. Online threats and smear campaigns were particularly prevalent against female journalists and those reporting for independent outlets.
Nigeria has long struggled with press freedom challenges, but the recent spike in attacks represents a significant escalation. The country ranks poorly in global press freedom indices, and watchdogs warn that continued repression could severely undermine democratic accountability ahead of future elections.
Local and international journalism organizations have urged Nigerian authorities to investigate all reported cases of violence against journalists, prosecute the perpetrators, and reaffirm their commitment to press freedom. They also called for training of security personnel on media rights and emphasized the urgent need for legal protections for journalists working in conflict-prone areas.
Despite these challenges, Nigerian journalists continue to report under pressure, underscoring their crucial role in informing the public and holding power to account.
Reference –
https://gazettengr.com/cases-of-attacks-on-journalists-in-nigeria-worsened-in-2024-report/
In Nigeria, at least 56 journalists attacked and harassed as protests roil region
