Edo Gov. election tribunal: Gov. Okpebholo orders probe into alleged DSS assault on journalists

Edo Gov. Monday Okpebholo has called for a probe into the alleged attack by an official of the Department of State Service(DSS) on journalists covering the Edo Governorship Election Tribunal at the High Court in Benin on Monday, January 20.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council,

Mr. Festus Alenkhe, disclosed this in a statement jointly signed by Alenkhe and the Secretary, Mr. Andy Egbon.

The council commended Okpebholo for taking swift and decisive action to ensure the safety and security of journalists, demonstrating his strong commitment to protecting the fundamental rights of media practitioners.

The union stated that the governor has directed the security agency to investigate the claims made by the NUJ accordingly.

The statement said: “We are deeply grateful to Governor Okpebholo for his prompt intervention, which has sent a strong message that attacks on journalists will not be tolerated in Edo State.

“We urge all stakeholders to join hands with Governor Okpebholo in promoting a culture of respect for the media and the fundamental rights of journalists.

“As the governor continues to demonstrate his commitment to protecting the rights of journalists, the NUJ has pledged its support for his administration’s efforts to promote a safe and enabling environment for media practice in Edo State.

“The governor has since directed the security agency to investigate claims by the NUJ accordingly.”

The NUJ reaffirmed the union’s dedication to safeguarding journalists’ rights and fostering a secure environment for media practice.

Persecondnews recalls that the union had in a statement on Monday, January 20, condemned the DSS for allegedly attacking journalists covering the tribunal sitting.

The council said the attempt to bar journalists from performing their constitutional duties is a blatant assault on press freedom and the fundamental right of citizens to information and free speech.

The tribunal sitting has raised a lot of security concerns.

Gunshots fired near the venue on Wednesday, January 15, sent lawyers, litigants, politicians, and reporters scampering for safety but armed security personnel responded quickly, restoring calm and enabling the tribunal to continue without a hitch at the Edo High Court Complex on Sapele Road, Benin City.

Reacting to the incident, the Edo State Police Command announced on Sunday, January 19, that it would deploy additional officers to the tribunal venue to ensure security.

Meanwhile, a new female Police Commissioner Betty Otimenyin has been posted to Edo State by the Police Service Commission (PSC).