The International Press Centre (IPC) has issued a warning to journalists and media professionals to take necessary safety measures while covering the planned nation-wide protests scheduled to commence on Thursday, August 1, 2024.

The protests, which will hold across the 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory from August 1-10, aim to demand a transformative change, effective leadership, affordable food, zero hunger, and a reduced cost of living.

IPC’s Executive Director, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, emphasized the importance of safety precautions for journalists, citing previous experiences where journalists were assaulted while performing their duties.

He advised journalists to be fully kitted, display their identification cards clearly, and avoid situations that may lead to mistaken identity or harassment by security agencies.

Arogundade also called on security agencies to perform their tasks in a civil and responsible manner, recognizing the critical role of the media in information dissemination.

He stressed that the media should be seen as partners in progress, not adversaries.

The IPC is also urging the public, including protesters, to protect and support journalists as they report on critical events during the protest.

The organization launched a safety and professional advisory during the 2023 general elections to ensure journalists are equipped with safety tools and precautions.

In case of any incidents of attacks or harassment, journalists can reach the IPC’s Safety Alert Desk Helpline at 08132776441.

The IPC’s Safety of Journalists Initiative aims to ensure the safety of journalists while performing their duties, and this safety advisory is in line with that mandate.