The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project SERAP has called on President Bola Tinubu to direct the Nigeria Police Force to urgently investigate the alleged assault on journalist Mr Musa Mikail in Niger State.
In a statement signed by deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare and dated 24 March 2026, SERAP urged the President to instruct the Inspector General of Police to conduct a prompt thorough and transparent probe into the incident.
Mr Mikail, a senior reporter with the Nigerian Television Authority, was reportedly assaulted on 13 March while covering a Ramadan Iftar event at the palace of the Etsu Nupe in Bida. Reports indicate that the was allegedly carried out by private security personnel under the instruction of Mr Shehu Maikano, Chief Security Officer to Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago.
SERAP stressed that the role of Governor Bago in the incident must be investigated, emphasizing that no public official is above the law. The organisation demanded that any individual found to have ordered condoned or participated in the assault be held accountable and that the victim be granted access to justice and adequate compensation.
Condemning persistent s on press freedom in Niger State, SERAP warned that such actions undermine democratic accountability and the rule of law. The organisation highlighted the vital role of journalists in informing the public and holding authorities accountable and noted that attempts to intimidate or silence the media are unlawful.
Citing Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution, SERAP reiterated that Nigerians are guaranteed freedom of expression including the right to receive and disseminate information without interference. Section 34 protects dignity and freedom from inhuman or degrading treatment. SERAP also referenced international human rights obligations under the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
The group warned that continued impunity for s on journalists weakens democracy and erodes public trust, insisting that accountability in this case is essential to safeguarding press freedom in Nigeria.
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