26th August 2025
By Peter Omopo
The Lagos State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to rein in his Chief Security Officer, Kunle Fagbemi, over alleged repeated harassment of journalists.
The call followed an incident on Saturday at the Lagos House, Ikeja, where Fagbemi was accused of verbally assaulting and obstructing members of the governor’s press crew while they covered an official event.
In a statement issued on Monday by its Chairman, Adeleye Ajayi, and Secretary, Tunde Olalere, the NUJ described the action as the third reported case of intimidation involving the CSO.
“This growing pattern of intimidation is not only unprofessional but also an affront to press freedom and democratic values,” the union said.
The NUJ condemned the alleged abuse of power and warned it would not tolerate further attempts to undermine the constitutional role of journalists. It demanded an immediate apology from Fagbemi and urged him to familiarise himself with the responsibilities of the media in a democracy.
“It is unfortunate that the concerned personnel, who ought to know better, has chosen to act in such a manner under the guise of performing his duties,” the union added.
Responding, the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, confirmed the incident and said efforts were underway to resolve the matter amicably.
“As soon as I heard about it, we met with the press corps and apologised. I also spoke with the CSO, who explained that he was only trying to restrict movement beyond a certain point. I believe it was a misunderstanding, and it will be resolved,” Akosile said.
