The Whistler Newspapers has condemned the unlawful arrest, assault and detention of its reporter, Kasarahchi ANIAGOLU, by officers of the Nigerian Police Force operating within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
According to a statement from the media house, Aniagolu was performing her journalistic duties while filming a raid on Bureau de Change (BDC) operators in Wuse Zone 4 yesterday.
“Despite clearly identifying herself as a journalist, she was manhandled and threatened, and her equipment was confiscated. She is currently being held at the Anti-Violence Crime Unit (former SARS office) in Guzape.
“We are deeply disturbed by the complete disregard for press freedom by the Nigerian Police Force and the blatant violation of Ms. Aniagolu’s fundamental rights.
“The physical assault and threats to her life are utterly unacceptable and a direct attack on independent journalism,” the statement added.
Furthermore, it noted that the conflicting statements regarding the operation from the Nigeria Police Force headquarters and the FCT Police Command “raise serious concerns about accountability and transparency.”
“The respective authorities’ blatant denial of the operation further highlights the need for a thorough investigation into this undemocratic incident.
“The Whistler demands the immediate and unconditional release of Ms. Anaigolu and an unreserved apology from the Leadership of the Nigeria Police Force.
“We call for a swift and transparent investigation into her unlawful arrest, assault, and detention. Those responsible for these actions must also be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
“We urge all relevant authorities to uphold the fundamental rights of journalists and ensure their safety and freedom to report without fear or intimidation,” it added.
Meanwhile, the Human Rights Writers Association Of Nigeria (HURIWA) has asked the president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sack or call to order his inspector General of police Mr. Kayode Egbetokun over the incident.
HURIWA described the unwarranted aggression against this innocent female journalist Aniagolu as absolutely intolerable, despicable, reprehensible, primitive and disappointing and has called for her immediate unconditional release and the enforcement of administrative sanctions on the operatives who inflicted the physical, psychological and emotional torture on her.
