A journalist with MITV, Habeeb Adejobi, was reportedly assaulted on Wednesday by individuals believed to be loyalists of the Chairman of Kosofe Local Government Area, Moyo Ogunlewe.
The incident allegedly occurred at the Kosofe council secretariat while the reporter was covering the screening exercise for newly appointed supervisors and special advisers. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
Adejobi said he arrived at the council secretariat to carry out his official assignment when a group of young men suddenly confronted and attacked him without provocation.
According to him, the individuals were allegedly led by a man who bystanders identified as the chairman’s driver.
He explained:
“I was at the council secretariat to cover the screening of supervisors and special advisers when some boys suddenly attacked me. They were led by a man people around identified as the chairman’s driver.”
The situation reportedly created tension within the council premises as colleagues and witnesses attempted to calm the situation.
Following the incident, Adejobi was taken to the Area Police Station where the Divisional Police Officer intervened.
Confirming the development, Lawrence Kayode said the case had been reported and the police had begun efforts to look into the matter.
According to the police officer, the report was made after the intervention of the Chief of Staff to the council chairman, Abiona Akinola.
The journalist was later released after police authorities stepped into the matter.
As of the time of filing this report, the Kosofe Local Government Council had not issued an official statement regarding the alleged attack.
The incident has sparked concerns among media professionals about the safety of journalists covering political activities and government events.
Observers say the development comes only weeks after another violent episode during the All Progressives Congress ward congress in the area, where a party chieftain, Kehinde Saka, was reportedly attacked by individuals believed to be supporters of the council chairman.
Media stakeholders say the recurring incidents highlight the urgent need for authorities to ensure journalists are able to perform their duties without intimidation or harassment.