CDHR Demands Justice Over Alleged Assault on Journalists by Chinese Firm’s Security Operatives in Ogun
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has strongly condemned the alleged assault, harassment, and intimidation of three journalists during an official enforcement operation in Igbesa, Ogun State, calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
In a statement issued on Thursday and made available to Global Mirror News, the human rights organization described the incident as a direct attack on press freedom, constitutional rights, and democratic values.
The statement, jointly signed by CDHR National President, Comrade Yinka Folarin, and National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Adewunmi Adesina, alleged that the journalists were attacked on June 3, 2026, while carrying out their lawful professional duties during an enforcement exercise in the Ogunguandong area of Igbesa.
The affected journalists were identified as Taiwo Fabajo of Ogun State Television (OGTV), Bidemi Bello of Channels Television, and Gbenga Osinuga.
According to CDHR, the attack was allegedly carried out by private security operatives attached to a Chinese company operating in the area. The organization said the incident represents a serious violation of press freedom and an attempt to intimidate media practitioners carrying out their constitutional responsibility of informing the public.
Speaking on the matter, CDHR stressed that journalists remain critical stakeholders in the promotion of transparency, accountability, and good governance, adding that any attack on members of the press amounts to an attack on democracy itself.
The organization described the incident as a troubling example of impunity and lawlessness, alleging that the security personnel involved acted as though they were above the law.
CDHR therefore called on the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately commence a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation into the incident.
The group demanded the identification, arrest, and prosecution of all persons involved in the alleged assault, including any sponsors, employers, or collaborators, within seven days.
The rights organization also urged the Ogun State Government to investigate the circumstances surrounding the disruption of the enforcement exercise that reportedly led to the incident.
As gathered by Global Mirror News, CDHR further raised concerns over allegations of suspicious under-remittance of Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) taxes and other statutory obligations reportedly linked to the company involved.
According to the organization, allegations suggesting that significant sums deducted from workers as PAYE taxes may not have been remitted to the appropriate authorities deserve urgent and transparent investigation.
The group insisted that the Ogun State Government owes residents a duty to disclose all facts relating to the allegations and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
CDHR also called for the exposure of any individuals, whether within government circles or outside, who may have aided, protected, or benefited from any alleged fraudulent activities associated with the company.
The organization warned that any attempt to suppress evidence, shield perpetrators, or frustrate investigations would be strongly resisted through lawful and democratic means.
It further threatened to mobilize peaceful mass actions, including picketing and protests, alongside civil society groups, labour activists, media stakeholders, and other democratic forces if security agencies fail to ensure accountability within the stipulated timeframe.
“The safety of journalists is non-negotiable. No individual, corporation, or security outfit has the authority to assault citizens with impunity. Nigeria remains a constitutional democracy governed by the rule of law, and all violators must face the full weight of the law,” the statement said.
CDHR reaffirmed its solidarity with the affected journalists, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), media practitioners across the country, and all defenders of democratic freedoms.
The organization concluded by insisting that justice must be done and must be seen to be done to strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions and the rule of law.
