The International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria has placed Inspector General of Police Olukayode Egbetokun and two state governors in its newly unveiled Book of Infamy for actions deemed hostile to press freedom, while commending the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi.
Vice President Kashim Shettima unveiled the Book of Infamy on Tuesday at IPI Nigeria’s second Annual Conference, with three officials becoming the first entries in the registry documenting press freedom violations.
The IGP was cited for failing to respond to IPI’s appeals to halt arbitrary arrests of journalists by police operatives across the country. Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno made the list for barring Channels TV crew from covering state government house activities, while Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago was included for ordering the closure of Badeggi FM, a private radio station.
Despite interventions by IPI Nigeria requesting reconsideration of decisions the organisation deemed beyond their legal authority, both governors refused to reverse their actions.
In contrast, DSS Director General Ajayi received recognition as a responsive leader of a sensitive government agency who has acted on IPI interventions and addressed identified concerns. His notable achievements include removing Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre, from the government’s watchlist after 40 years.
Speaking at the event, Information Minister Mohammed Idris emphasised that an independent press serves as “the central nervous system of a functioning democracy.” He stated that President Bola Tinubu’s administration operates on the principle that a critical and independent press is fundamental to democratic governance.
Idris noted that security agencies now follow stricter protocols to respect journalists’ rights in conflict zones and during civil demonstrations, adding that the administration continues to ensure a conducive environment for licensed media establishments to operate without fear.
