By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

Bauchi State Commissioner of Police, Auwal Mohammed, has strongly condemned the alleged assault on Mohammed Adamu, a journalist with Albarka Radio.

The attack occurred during the Eid Durbar celebrations in Tafawa Balewa LGA while the reporter was performing his professional duties.

The incident reportedly began when the Bununu Divisional Police Officer, SP Jamilu Kabir, stopped Adamu from entering a designated media area. Despite presenting his official identification, the journalist was allegedly denied access and ordered to leave the premises immediately.

Witnesses claim the situation turned violent when several officers used sticks to beat the journalist and subjected him to verbal abuse.

The assault resulted in significant head injuries and profuse bleeding, requiring Adamu to be rushed to a hospital for emergency medical treatment.

In response, the Police Command’s spokesperson, SP Ahmed Wakil, announced that the CP has ordered a formal investigation into the conduct of the officers involved. The CP reiterated that the force does not tolerate the brutalization of citizens or the harassment of media professionals.

Press freedom advocacy groups, including the Media Rights Agenda, have denounced the attack as a “brazen violation” of constitutional rights. They expressed concern over the rising pattern of media harassment and have demanded the immediate suspension of the implicated officers.

The Bauchi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists is also investigating the matter to ensure the facts are fully documented. The union stressed that security agencies should protect the press rather than obstruct them during the discharge of their lawful duties.

The CP has assured the public and the media community that any officer found guilty of misconduct will face strict disciplinary actions. This commitment aims to address the act of impunity and restore a professional working relationship between the police and the press.