Arrests, Detention: Journalists are cautioned by the Press Institute on norms and professional ethics

The International Press Institute (IPI), Nigeria, has issued a statement urging journalists to maintain high standards and avoid spreading misinformation in response to the recent arrests and detentions of journalists. The intervention by IPI led to the release of journalist Ibraheem Mohammed, who had been arrested by the Nasarawa State Police Command for allegedly publishing false information regarding the theft of N40 million from Governor Abdullahi Sule’s bedroom. Following his arrest, Mohammed was charged with violating the Cybercrime Act and was remanded in custody pending trial. However, after spending 10 days in jail, he was granted bail by the Nasarawa High Court, with the charges expected to be withdrawn by the police on May 13.

In a statement by Tobi Soniyi, the Legal Adviser/Chairman of the Advocacy Committee of IPI Nigeria, the Institute emphasized the importance of professionalism among journalists. IPI Nigeria’s delegation, led by President Musikilu Mojeed, engaged with top officials of the Nasarawa State government to secure Mohammed’s release, including Governor Sule, Attorney General Labaran Magaji, and Chief Press Secretary Ibrahim Addra. The delegation also visited Mohammed in prison to show their support.

Additionally, First News, the organization Mohammed worked for, issued an apology to Governor Sule, acknowledging that the story lacked truth and was fabricated by the reporter due to personal motives. IPI Nigeria has urged Nigerian journalists to uphold the ethical standards of their profession, refrain from spreading fake news, and maintain a high level of professionalism in their work.

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