“IPC Raises Alarm Over Safety of Ibadan Journalist Amid Threats and Intimidation”
The Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) wing of the International Press Centre (IPC) has raised serious concerns over the safety of Ibadan-based journalist Tayo Oyeladun, following alleged threats to his life. Oyeladun, a presenter at Lagelu FM, revealed on his Facebook page on January 30, 2023, that he had been receiving death threats after hosting a program titled Bosenlo.
The threats reportedly stemmed from comments made by a guest during the show, which displeased the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Soun of Ogbomoso. Oyeladun, in a distressing post, stated: “The past few days have been difficult for me and my family. I am receiving death threats simply for doing my job as a journalist.”
In his post, Oyeladun further claimed that powerful individuals had been pressuring his employer to terminate his employment. He questioned: “If I lose my job or my life, who will care for my children and family?”
The IPC-SPJ responded swiftly, calling on both the Nigerian government and security agencies, including the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, to prioritize the journalist’s safety. Melody Akinjiyan, the Press Freedom Officer, stated that grievances concerning the broadcast should be addressed legally, not through threats and harassment.
In a separate incident, the IPC-SPJ also condemned the alleged closure of Joy FM 96.5 in Otukpo, Benue State, by armed police officers. The police, reportedly accompanied by officials from the Benue Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) and the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, stormed the station. Staff members were allegedly assaulted, and a journalist on air was forced at gunpoint to halt the 1pm news broadcast.
The IPC-SPJ described the raid as an extreme abuse of power and a direct attack on press freedom. The organization has called for a full investigation into the matter, urging that those responsible for the attack on the station face appropriate sanctions.
