How Nigerian Officials Threaten Journalists and Get Away With It
By Timileyin Akinmoyeje In recent years, several Nigerian officials have openly threatened journalists for asking tough questions. The Foundation for Investigative Journalism has compiled a timeline of these incidents, their triggers and outcomes. In 2017, Governor Okorocha barred two reporters and warned he would “deal ruthlessly” if they tried to enter Government House. In 2020, Femi Fani-Kayode publicly called a Daily Trust journalist “stupid” and threatened never to answer his questions again. In 2025, the Nigeria Railway MD insulted an NTA correspondent and vowed to get her dismissed. Early in 2026, Transport Minister David Umahi sent a WhatsApp message demanding a public apology from a publisher or face “consequences.” Two days later, an aide to the FCT minister sent a veiled warning to an ARISE News reporter. Despite public outcry, none of the officials faced formal discipline.
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