The International Press Centre (IPC) has condemned the surveillance of its premises by the Nigeria Police Force, alleging that officers are attempting to intimidate its staff and undermine press freedom.
According to a statement released by the IPC, two men in plainclothes approached a staff member at the entrance of the centre’s office in Ogba, Lagos, around 1:40 pm on Tuesday, the 11th June, 2024.
The officers claimed they were conducting surveillance on the premises regarding a press conference held on June 6th, which discussed plans for the June 12th anniversary.
The IPC has denied any involvement in organizing protests or events related to the anniversary.
The centre’s management has demanded an immediate halt to the surveillance, describing it as an attack on press freedom and the right to free speech.
This incident follows a similar encounter on Friday, where two men claiming to be officials of the Lagos Neighbourhood Watch visited the IPC to inquire about an alleged protest.
The IPC, a media resource institution, has been a hub for various events and press conferences over the past 25 years, hosting diverse interest groups and individuals.
The centre’s management has expressed concern over the escalating siege on civic space and the spate of attacks on press freedom in Nigeria.
