FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Abuja, Nigeria – Thursday, August 27, 2026: DigiCivic Initiative commends the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, PhD for his prompt intervention following the alleged assault of Mr. Sunday Michael Ogwu, Editor of Pinnacle Daily, during the clampdown exercise on illicit drug sellers in Lugbe, Abuja on 19 August 2026.
Following the incident, DigiCivic Initiative accompanied Mr. Ogwu to the FCT Police Command, where his account of the incident was formally received. The police side of the matter was also presented, and Mr. Ogwu provided a written statement. The Commissioner subsequently directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police from the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) to conduct a proper investigation and report back.
We consider this directive an important step towards ensuring that the allegations are subjected to due process and resolved on the basis of facts and evidence. We commend the Commissioner’s willingness to receive the complaint and initiate an institutional investigation.
However, DigiCivic Initiative strongly condemns any form of brutality, intimidation, harassment or unlawful use of force against journalists or any member of the public. If established, the alleged physical assault of Mr. Ogwu, including the reported seizure and damage of his mobile device, is unacceptable and inconsistent with the responsibility of law-enforcement officers to protect citizens and uphold the law.
Journalists perform an essential public-interest function by documenting events and informing citizens. Their legitimate professional activities should not expose them to violence, intimidation or retaliation. The ability of journalists to report on public operations is an important component of a free and democratic society.
We therefore urge the Nigeria Police Force and all personnel operating under its authority to desist from all forms of brutality, intimidation and unlawful use of force and to ensure that officers deployed to public operations are adequately trained and reminded of their obligations regarding human rights, press freedom and the lawful exercise of police powers.
We further call on the investigating team to conduct a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation, including identifying all personnel involved, reviewing available video and other evidence, interviewing relevant witnesses, and establishing the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault and damage to the journalist’s equipment.
Where any officer or other person is found to have acted unlawfully, we urge the appropriate authorities to ensure accountability in accordance with the law. Equally, the investigation should be allowed to establish the facts fairly without prejudging any individual.
DigiCivic Initiative remains committed to promoting digital rights, civic freedoms, freedom of expression, journalist safety and accountable governance. We will continue to monitor the matter and encourage constructive engagement between the media, civil society and law-enforcement institutions towards strengthening public trust and protecting civic space.
Signed:
DigiCivic Initiative
Abuja, Nigeria