By Erewunmi Peace

The International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria National Committee has called on the newly appointed Acting Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, to break what it described as a persistent cycle of press repression in the country.

In a public statement, IPI Nigeria urged the Acting IGP to take immediate steps to halt harassment, intimidation, and unlawful detention of journalists by police officers.

The organisation noted that previous patterns of conduct under past leadership had contributed to a culture of impunity that undermines press freedom.

IPI Nigeria emphasized that safeguarding media freedom is essential to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and ensuring accountability in governance. The group called for:

• An immediate end to the harassment and intimidation of journalists
• A review of pending cases involving media practitioners
• Improved training of police officers on human rights and press freedom • Stronger engagement between the police and media stakeholders

The appeal comes amid growing concerns over reported incidents involving journalists across various states.

As Acting IGP, Disu is expected to outline his priorities for policing reforms and internal accountability within the Nigeria Police Force.