Ibor believes the action reflects a pattern of political intimidation aimed at restricting press freedom.
By TheInvestigator
In an exclusive interview with The Investigator, James Ibor, Principal Partner of Basic Rights Counsel Initiative, has voiced strong criticism over the alleged harassment of the publisher The Converseer, Mr Frank Ulom following a recent police case involving the Cross River State Commissioner for Works, Mr Pius Ankpo.
The issue began when a report published in The Converseer alleged that the Commissioner had bribed members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus in AKamkpa, his local government to ensure the election of his mother-in-law in the recent local government primaries. Following the publication, Frank was questioned by police on what Ibor called “disinformation”.
“The police later apologized for the interrogation,” Ibor stated. “The officer-in-charge admitted that the disinformation was inaccurate and had cautioned his personnel over the incident. I took Frankie on bail,” Ibor said, recounting his role in securing the journalist’s release.
Despite the apology, Frankie was asked to return for further questioning today Thursday, October 31, 2024, a move that Ibor argues could determine whether charges will be filed against him.
Barrister James Ibor | Photo Credit: BBC Africa.
Ibor believes the action reflects a pattern of political intimidation aimed at restricting press freedom.
“His petition points to impunity. This is a clear attempt to gag the press,” Ibor asserted. “We are determined to protect the civic space, which is already shrinking. Any attempt by politically exposed persons to harass or intimidate journalists in Nigeria should be ready for a challenge because we have resolved to provide free legal services to any journalist who faces such intimidation.”
Ibor emphasized that a civil suit would have been more appropriate if the politician felt genuinely defamed. “The police should start refusing requests by politically exposed persons to use state resources to oppress the masses,” he added.
This stance reflects growing concerns among civil rights advocates about press freedom in Nigeria, with Ibor affirming that his organization will continue to support journalists facing intimidation from public figures or state agents.
This move sparked concerns among media and civic organizations over transparency and procedural fairness. Read the reports below:
Read the report of the invitation below: