The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Adewale Adepoju, has tendered a public apology to the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State chapter, following the assault of journalists by police officers during the #TakeItBackProtest in Port Harcourt on Monday, April 7, 2025.
During a courtesy visit to the NUJ secretariat on Friday, Adepoju announced that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) overseeing the Abali Park area, where the incident occurred, has been removed from office. He also confirmed that officers involved are under investigation, with one already in detention.
Describing the media as key partners in promoting peace and accountability, Adepoju acknowledged the misconduct of his officers and expressed disappointment over the lack of evidence supporting their earlier claims that the protesters posed a security threat.
“I saw the videos myself and was not happy,” he stated. “There was no proof that they were under attack or trying to prevent criminal activity. The officers involved acted without justification, and that is unacceptable.”
He reassured the journalists that disciplinary measures are underway and warned that any future violations would attract strict sanctions.
In response, NUJ Chairman Paul Bazia appreciated the commissioner’s swift action and called for written apologies to be sent to the affected journalists and their media organizations. He also emphasized the need for identified officers, especially those captured on video, to face consequences.
“We believe this will serve as a strong warning to others. Journalists must be protected, not attacked,” Bazia added.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment from both parties to maintain a peaceful and professional relationship going forward.
