Security Guards Assault Journalists in Ogun Free Trade Zone

On Wednesday, during a tax enforcement exercise at the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone in Ogun State, security guards reportedly assaulted journalists, including Taiwo Fabajo, Bidemi Bello, and Gbenga Osinuga, who were covering the event. The Ogun State Government officials were present to enforce tax compliance due to alleged non-payment by companies operating in the zone.

The enforcement team faced resistance from security personnel, leading to injuries among two police officers. A viral video captured the physical abuse of the journalists by private security operatives associated with a Chinese company in the area.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, through its secretary Bunmi Adigun, described the attack as unacceptable and a threat to press freedom, urging the police to conduct an immediate investigation. Other organizations, including the Freelance Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria and the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, also condemned the assault and called for accountability.