…Warns against backdoor revival of SARS-style tactics

The Finance Correspondents Association of Nigeria (FICAN) has strongly condemned the alleged assault, harassment and destruction of the mobile phone of one of its members, Sunday Michael Ogwu, Editor of Pinnacle Daily, by police operatives and members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) in Abuja.

According to a statement jointly signed by FICAN Chairman Mr. Chima Titus Nwokoji and General Secretary Mr. Sam Diala, the incident occurred on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, around 5:30 p.m. in the Lugbe Federal Housing Estate area of the Federal Capital Territory. It took place during a joint demolition exercise involving personnel of the Lugbe Police Division and VGN members.

Ogwu, who was taking a stroll in the vicinity, reportedly brought out his phone to document the ongoing operation. Eyewitnesses alleged that a police officer immediately accosted him, forcibly seized the device despite his repeated identification as a journalist, and attempted to prevent him from speaking with the team leader.

The officers and VGN members allegedly surrounded Ogwu, arrested some local youths and ordered him into a police patrol van. When he declined, insisting he had committed no offence, the officers allegedly flogged him with an electric cable on the instruction of the supervising officer.

After his phone was eventually returned and he was told to leave, Ogwu moved about 100 metres away and began recording a video of the scene while attempting to send a distress message to his media organisation. The officers noticed him, pursued him, dragged him back to the demolition site and subjected him to a second round of flogging.

The officer in charge allegedly ordered the renewed assault, stating that the first beating was “not enough.”
FICAN said the attack left Ogwu with physical injuries and caused serious damage to his mobile phone before passers-by intervened and urged him to leave the area.

In its statement, the association described the alleged conduct as unacceptable and a serious violation of press freedom and citizens’ rights. It recalled that the incident evokes memories of the police brutality that triggered the nationwide #EndSARS protests of 2020, which led to the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad.

“FICAN is demanding a declaration that it is unlawful for police officers to seize devices, arrest or threaten citizens recording their activities,” the statement said.

“An apology must be given to the victim within 72 hours and all medical bills and phone repair expenses incurred by Mr. Ogwu must be settled immediately.”

The association emphasised that Nigerians are entitled under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution to freedom of expression, including the right to record the conduct of law enforcement agents performing public duties.
“Journalism is not a crime,” FICAN stressed, noting that the media’s responsibility to hold public institutions accountable is constitutionally guaranteed.

FICAN called on the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, and the FCT Police Command to order an immediate and transparent investigation. It demanded that those found responsible among the police officers and VGN personnel be identified, arrested and appropriately disciplined. The association also sought full compensation for the damaged phone, payment of medical expenses and a formal public apology to the journalist and the management of Pinnacle Daily.

Further, FICAN urged police authorities to direct all divisions across the Federal Capital Territory to end the intimidation, harassment and physical assault of journalists covering public events. It warned against any attempt to revive SARS-style tactics through the back door.

“Only a public servant involved in criminal activities would be afraid of being recorded,” the association observed. “Recording a public servant performing legitimate duties should be a source of pride and a means of projecting the organisation in a positive light.”

FICAN, an umbrella body of finance and economy journalists drawn from print, electronic, radio and online platforms nationwide, reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a safe environment in which journalists can discharge their constitutional responsibilities without fear of intimidation or retaliation.