In Calabar, Cross River State, several journalists and activists were arrested by security agents during a peaceful protest on Thursday morning.
Among the arrested is Mr. Jonathan Ugbal, the managing editor of the online newspaper CrossRiverWatch.
Eyewitnesses reported that the journalists were covering a peaceful demonstration at the Mary Slessor roundabout when they were apprehended. The protest marked the first day of a ten-day nationwide campaign against bad governance in Nigeria.
The security personnel, heavily armed and arriving in four Hilux vehicles and SUVs, were accused of beating, handcuffing, and taking the protesters and journalists to an undisclosed location. A video posted by Ugbal earlier in the morning showed deserted roads surrounding the protest site.
Human rights activist James Ibor condemned the arrests, describing them as “condemnable and reprehensible.” He challenged the authorities to provide evidence of any violent behavior by Ugbal and the other detainees. Ibor expressed concern that the security agents might be affiliated with the state governor, Senator Bassey Otu, and urged the governor to ensure the release of the journalists and activists.
“This is very sad. It is a disappointment, and we call on Governor Otu to order the release of these journalists and activists, who I strongly believe are in government custody,” said Ibor.
The protest in Calabar is part of a larger movement calling for an end to bad governance in Nigeria, highlighting ongoing concerns about the suppression of free speech and the rights of journalists and activists.
