The International Press Centre (IPC) has strongly condemned the reported attacks and arrests of journalists who covered the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest in Abuja on Monday, October 20, 2025.
The protest, led by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, demanded the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who remains in detention by the Federal Government.
In a statement released on Wednesday through its Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) Hub, the IPC expressed deep concern over incidents of physical assault, unlawful arrests, equipment seizure, and property damage suffered by media personnel during the protest.
The organization cited specific cases, including the attack on Business Day reporters and the arrest of two Agence France-Presse (AFP) journalists by security agents.
In the statement signed by Executive Director, Lanre Arogundade, the IPC described the attacks as a “disturbing recurrence of history”, stressing that journalists must not be punished for performing their legitimate duties.
“Under no circumstance should journalists lawfully covering protests or public events face harassment, intimidation, or arrest from security operatives,” Arogundade said.
He reminded authorities that press freedom is protected under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and by international media rights frameworks, adding that accountability must be ensured for those responsible for the attacks.
The IPC also called on the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant agencies to launch a transparent investigation into the incidents and to take concrete steps to prevent future violations.
The organization further urged the government to implement comprehensive reforms that would strengthen the safety of journalists, particularly during politically sensitive protests and civic demonstrations.
