The Safety and Protection of Journalists SPJ, hub of the International Press Centre, IPC, has raised alarm over alleged threats to the life of an Ibadan based journalist, Tayo Oyeladun of Lagelu FM.

Oyeladun, in a distress message posted on his Facebook page on January 30, 2023, claimed he had been receiving death threats following a program he anchored, titled Bosenlo.

The threats reportedly began after the Chief Press Secretary ,CPS, to the Soun of Ogbomoso expressed dissatisfaction with comments made by a guest on the show.

“The past few days have been hard for me and my family. I am facing death threats for doing my job as a broadcast journalist,” Oyeladun wrote.

He further alleged that influential figures were pressuring his employers to dismiss him. “If I lose my job or life, will they take care of my children and family?” he questioned.

In a statement issued to reporters in Taraba State on Monda, the IPC-SPJ urged the Nigerian government and security agencies, particularly the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, to ensure Oyeladun’s safety.

The Press Freedom Officer, Melody Akinjiyan, emphasized that any grievances regarding the program should be addressed through legal channels rather than threats and intimidation.

In a separate incident, IPC-SPJ also condemned the alleged forced closure of Joy FM 96.5, Otukpo, by the Benue State government.

According to reports, heavily armed police officers stormed the station in two trucks, allegedly led by officials from the Benue Internal Revenue Service, BIRS and the State Ministry of Commerce & Industry.

The raid reportedly resulted in staff members being assaulted, and a journalist reading the 1pm news bulletin, forced at gunpoint to halt the broadcast.

IPC-SPJ described the action as a grave abuse of power and a direct attack on press freedom.

The organisation called for an immediate investigation and appropriate sanctions against those responsible.