The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council, has called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to take firm action against his Chief Security Officer (CSO), Kunle Fagbemi, following a series of alleged incidents of harassment directed at journalists covering the governor’s activities.
The latest episode occurred on Saturday at the Lagos House in Ikeja, where Mr Fagbemi was accused of verbally assaulting and obstructing members of the governor’s official press crew as they attempted to discharge their duties.
In a statement issued on Monday, signed by its Chairman, Adeleye Ajayi, and Secretary, Tunde Olalere, the union expressed grave concern over what it described as a “growing pattern of intimidation” by the governor’s aide. The NUJ noted that Saturday’s altercation was the third such accusation levelled against Mr Fagbemi.
“This growing pattern of intimidation is not only unprofessional but also an affront to press freedom and democratic values,” the union said.
The NUJ condemned what it termed an abuse of power and warned that it would not accept further attempts to stifle or undermine the constitutional role of journalists in a democracy.
“It is unfortunate that the concerned personnel, who ought to know better, has chosen to act in such a manner under the guise of performing his duties,” the statement added.
The council demanded a public apology from the CSO and urged him to familiarise himself with the role of the media in upholding accountability. It further called on Governor Sanwo-Olu to intervene decisively to prevent a recurrence.
Responding to the controversy, the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, confirmed to The Punch that the matter had been brought to his attention. He said discussions had been held with the press corps, who had since received an apology.
“I’ve also spoken with the affected Chief Security Officer to the governor. He told me his own side — that he was trying to restrict movement beyond a certain point — but I believe it was a misunderstanding. It’s something that will be resolved amicably,” Mr Akosile said.
Despite assurances of resolution, the NUJ insisted that repeated incidents point to a deeper issue that requires more than conciliatory gestures, stressing the need for institutional safeguards to protect journalists against intimidation in the course of their professional responsibilities.
