The International Press Centre (IPC), through its Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) hub, has raised concerns over alleged death threats against Tayo Oyeladun, a journalist with Lagelu FM in Ibadan.
Oyeladun posted on Facebook on January 30, 2023, saying he had been receiving threats after hosting a radio program called Bosenlo.
The threats reportedly started after the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Soun of Ogbomoso was unhappy with comments made by a guest on the show.
"The past few days have been tough for me and my family. I am receiving death threats just for doing my job as a journalist," Oyeladun wrote.
He also claimed that powerful people were pressuring his employers to fire him. "If I lose my job or life, who will take care of my family?" he asked.
In a statement released in Taraba State, IPC-SPJ called on the Nigerian government and security agencies, especially the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, to ensure Oyeladun’s safety.
The group's Press Freedom Officer, Melody Akinjiyan, stressed that any complaints about the program should be handled legally, not through threats or intimidation.
Condemnation of Radio Station Closure
IPC-SPJ also condemned the reported shutdown of Joy FM 96.5 in Otukpo by the Benue State government.
Reports say heavily armed police officers, along with officials from the Benue Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) and the State Ministry of Commerce & Industry, stormed the station in two trucks.
During the raid, staff members were allegedly attacked, and a journalist reading the 1 PM news was forced at gunpoint to stop the broadcast.
IPC-SPJ described the incident as a serious abuse of power and a direct attack on press freedom.
The group has called for an immediate investigation and for those responsible to be held accountable.
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