NUJ Urges Sanwo-Olu to Caution CSO Over Harassment of Journalists

NUJ Urges Sanwo-Olu to Caution CSO Over Harassment of Journalists

The Lagos State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to caution his Chief Security Officer (CSO), Mr. Kunle Fagbemi, over what it described as repeated acts of harassment against journalists.

The latest incident reportedly occurred on Saturday at the Lagos House, Ikeja, during an empowerment programme organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative led by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

According to the NUJ, Fagbemi allegedly obstructed and verbally assaulted members of the governor’s press crew while they were carrying out their duties at the event.

In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Mr. Adeleye Ajayi, and Secretary, Mr. Tunde Olalere, the union expressed concern over what it described as a recurring pattern of unprofessional conduct by the CSO, noting that this was the third reported case of intimidation involving him.

“This growing pattern of intimidation is not only unprofessional but also an affront to press freedom and democratic values,” the NUJ stated.

The union condemned the action as an abuse of power and warned that it would no longer tolerate attempts to undermine the constitutional rights of journalists.

“It is unfortunate that a security personnel, who ought to know better, has chosen to act in such a manner under the guise of performing his duties,” the statement read.

The NUJ demanded a public apology from Mr. Fagbemi and urged him to acquaint himself with the role of the media in a democracy. It also called on Governor Sanwo-Olu to take immediate steps to prevent further occurrences.

“Journalists are not enemies of the state. They are partners in democratic governance, and their rights must be respected at all times,” Ajayi stressed.

The Lagos NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom and protecting the safety and dignity of journalists across the state.