IPC Decries ‘Despicable Abuse of Power’ in Detention of Journalists

Elizabeth Vincent, Yenagoa

The International Press Centre (IPC) has strongly condemned the arrest, detention, and remand of Kano-based journalist Muktar Dahiru in prison. Dahiru, a reporter for Pyramid FM, was taken into custody by the police on Thursday, August 29, 2024, for sharing content on his Facebook page deemed critical of the Kano State government.

According to information gathered by the IPC’s Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) hub, Dahiru was secretly charged before Magistrate Court 24 at Gyadi Gyadi, Court Road, with criminal conspiracy, defamation of character, and intentional insult. The government alleged that the offences contravene sections 97, 391, and 115 of the Penal Code Law.

The IPC’s Executive Director, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, described the action as “highly condemnable” and a “despicable abuse of power.” He emphasized that Dahiru should have been granted bail in the first instance, rather than being punished without a proper trial.

“This is a clear violation of press freedom and a blatant attempt to silence critical voices,” Arogundade said. “The government’s actions are unacceptable and undermine the principles of democracy and human rights.”

The IPC called for Dahiru’s immediate release and urged the authorities to respect the rights of journalists to report freely without fear of persecution. The centre also demanded that the government drop all charges against Dahiru and ensure that he is not subjected to further harassment or intimidation.

The detention of Muktar Dahiru is a disturbing trend in Nigeria, where journalists are increasingly facing harassment, intimidation, and arrest for performing their duties. The IPC’s condemnation of this action highlights the need for greater protection and safety measures for journalists in the country.

Muktar Dahiru is a well-known journalist in Kano State, known for his critical reporting on government activities. His arrest and detention have sparked widespread outrage among journalists and human rights activists, who see it as an attempt to silence critical voices.

The Kano State government has been criticized for its handling of the case, with many accusing it of abusing its power to suppress dissenting voices.

The detention of Muktar Dahiru has sent a chilling message to journalists in Nigeria, many of whom are now fearful of reporting critically on government activities.

The IPC’s condemnation of the action is a call to action for journalists and human rights activists to stand up against government intimidation and harassment.