The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has vehemently condemned the Benue State Government’s forceful invasion and closure of Joy FM 96.5, Otukpo, describing it as a blatant assault on press freedom and democracy. According to HURIWA, the armed invasion by security operatives constitutes state-sponsored thuggery and intimidation against the media, which could plunge Nigeria into an era of media suppression.
Reports indicate that heavily armed policemen stormed the radio station in two trucks, led by the Chairman of the Benue Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) and Mr. Ikwue Ikwue of the State Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Otukpo Zone. Staff members were reportedly assaulted, and a journalist was forced at gunpoint to halt the broadcast.
Key Concerns Raised by HURIWA:
- Excessive Use of Force: The use of armed policemen to shut down a media house under the guise of enforcing tax collection is excessive and violates constitutional provisions guaranteeing freedom of the press.
- Lack of Due Process: The government’s failure to follow proper legal procedures and provide adequate notice before shutting down the station is a clear abuse of power.
- Politically Motivated Attack: HURIWA suspects that the invasion was politically motivated, citing the claim that the station owed N150,000 for a business premises levy as “laughable.”
HURIWA has called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to immediately reopen the station and hold those responsible for the unlawful attack accountable. The association has also urged the Nigeria Police Force to investigate the incident and ensure that those involved are brought to justice.
