Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has condemned the reported assault of a radio journalist, Mohammed Adamu, by police officers during an Eid Durbar event in Bauchi State, calling for an immediate investigation and accountability. In a statement issued in Lagos, the organisation said the incident occurred in Bununu, headquarters of Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area, where Adamu, a reporter with Albarka Radio, was covering the event.
According to MRA, the journalist was allegedly stopped and assaulted by officers while attempting to access an area designated for media coverage. The group said Adamu sustained injuries and was later treated at a medical facility.
MRA Programme Officer, John Gbadamosi, described the incident as a serious concern for press freedom and the safety of journalists, noting that such actions could undermine public access to information. He urged the Inspector-General of Police to order a “thorough, transparent, and timely investigation” into the matter, identify any officers involved, and ensure appropriate action is taken in line with the law.
The organisation also called on the Federal Government and security agencies to uphold the rights of journalists, particularly during public events, and to strengthen measures that protect media professionals in the course of their duties. MRA warned that failure to address such incidents could erode confidence in public institutions and pose risks to independent journalism.
