The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) has strongly condemned the assault on a Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) reporter, Mr. Musa Mikail, allegedly carried out on the orders of the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to Niger State Governor, Mr. Shehu Abdulai Maikano.
In a statement signed by Busola Ajibola, Deputy Director of the Journalism Programme at CJID, the organisation described the incident as a “blatant act of thuggery” and a direct attack on press freedom.
According to CJID, the incident occurred on March 13, 2026, during an event in Bida organised by the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, in honour of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.
Mikail, a senior reporter with the NTA, was reportedly carrying out his duties when he was confronted by Maikano, who allegedly ordered private security operatives to “deal with him mercilessly,” despite the journalist identifying himself. He was subsequently beaten, kicked, and forcibly ejected from the venue.
CJID said efforts by colleagues, bystanders, and even the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary to intervene were ignored, forcing the injured journalist to flee for his safety as the attackers reportedly continued to pursue him.
The organisation expressed concern that the attack reflects a broader pattern of hostility toward journalists in Niger State. It cited previous incidents, including the detention of journalist Ahmed Isah Sakpe in February 2026 over alleged defamation, and the assault on Voice of America correspondent Mustapha Batsari by a state official in 2023.
CJID also referenced multiple reports of intimidation, harassment, and shutdowns of media outlets in the state, including the alleged closure of Badeggi FM Radio and the harassment of freelance and broadcast journalists between 2024 and 2025.
Describing the trend as a “systematic attempt to suppress freedom of expression,” CJID warned that such actions could undermine democratic governance if left unchecked.
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The organisation called on the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Tunji Disu, and Governor Bago to immediately identify, suspend, and prosecute those responsible for the assault. It also demanded a public apology to the victim and the NTA, as well as full compensation for medical treatment and damaged equipment.
CJID further urged the Niger State Government to take concrete steps to end what it described as a culture of hostility toward the press, including reorienting public officials and security personnel on the constitutional role of the media.
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