IPC condemns attack on journalists after Kano APC rally
The International Press Centre (IPC) and the Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) Hub have condemned an attack on journalists returning from a rally held by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State.
The incident took place on Saturday, September 5, 2026, following the Tinubu Support Group rally at Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano. A statement released by the IPC-SPJ Hub on Monday, which was signed by Press Freedom Officer Melody Akinjiyan, detailed the attack.
According to the statement, a vehicle transporting journalists from various media outlets was targeted by assailants while they were leaving the political event. Four staff members of Radio Nigeria’s Pyramid FM, along with a journalist from Guarantee Radio and another from Daily Trust, were among those affected.
The attackers repeatedly struck the vehicle during the assault. The driver reportedly sustained injuries, and some journalists were injured by broken glass resulting from the damage to the vehicle.
The IPC-SPJ Hub characterized the attack as a serious concern, particularly noting that the vehicle belonging to Radio Nigeria Pyramid FM was damaged.
Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre, emphasized the incident as a threat to press freedom and journalist safety during politically charged events. He stated that journalists should not face violence as political activities intensify in the lead-up to general elections.
“The campaigns and rallies have only just begun, and journalists should not be subjected to any form of attack at this time,” Arogundade said.
The IPC-SPJ Hub has called upon security agencies to enhance protective measures for journalists covering political events. It urged authorities to pay special attention to journalists present at large political gatherings, where the potential for danger increases.
Additionally, the Hub advised media organizations and journalists engaged in electoral coverage to conduct security assessments and remain vigilant as they report on political and election-related matters.
