UNESCO Condemns Killing of Sudanese Journalist Ibrahim Abdullah Amid Ongoing Darfur Conflict

January 30, 2025 – Sudan – 

Ibrahim Abdullah, widely known as “Ibrahim Showtime,” was a freelance journalist dedicated to covering the Sudanese conflict. He gained prominence through his Facebook and YouTube reporting on war and politics. On June 28, 2024, his home in El Fasher, North Darfur, was struck by shelling from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), resulting in his death.

UNESCO Director‑General Audrey Azoulay issued a formal condemnation on January 30, 2025, denouncing Abdullah’s killing and urging a comprehensive investigation to hold the attackers accountable. She emphasized that “journalists and media workers are essential channels of information during a conflict and their safety must be ensured by all parties” UNESCO reiterated its commitment to ensuring journalist safety through global awareness initiatives, training programs, and its ongoing UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.

The Committee for Justice in Geneva also decried the killing, naming Abdullah as a “media activist” and demanding accountability from those responsible for the shelling. The organization referred to his death as yet another civilian loss inflicted by the conflict, urging that all parties prioritize the protection of press freedom and civilian lives.

CPJ’s “Killed in Sudan” database records that Ibrahim Abdullah was killed when RSF artillery hit his residence. His death exemplifies a disturbing trend of deliberate or reckless targeting of journalists, often at home or on assignment, by armed groups in the region.

Abdullah’s final reports focused on war crimes attributed to the RSF in El Fasher, where he called for a ceasefire. Sources suggest he was targeted in retaliation for critical reporting. The RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces had not responded to inquiries from CPJ regarding the incident, highlighting a disturbing absence of accountability.

Abdullah’s death resonates with warnings from UNESCO and CPJ that Sudan’s conflict continues to endanger media professionals. More than twenty journalists have been killed or disappeared since combat intensified in April 2023. The persistent threat of impunity further emboldens these actors.

This case underscores the urgent need for effective conflict safeguards. UNESCO, CPJ, CFJ, and other organizations demand transparent investigations, legal retribution, and international involvement to ensure no journalist falls victim to impunity. Ibrahim Abdullah’s life and sacrifice serve as a grim reminder of the vital—and perilous—role journalists play in exposing truth amidst violence.

Reference – 

Ibrahim Abdallah (Ibrahim Showtime)

https://www.cfjustice.org/sudan-cfj-condemns-the-killing-of-nedia-activist-by-shelling-in-el-fasher/