Press Under Siege: Okpebholo’s Men Accused Of Vicious Assault On Reporter

Outrage as Okpebholo’s Security Squad Brutalizes Journalist in Edo Hotel Raid

A newly launched security unit in Edo State, codenamed “Operation Flush out Kidnappers and Cultists,” has come under intense criticism after allegedly assaulting Hassan Olasunnkanmi Quadri, a journalist with Independent Television. The incident reportedly occurred less than 24 hours after the squad began operations, according to iReporter Online.

Governor Monday Okpebholo, who unveiled the special task force last Sunday, had stated that the new outfit was aimed at eradicating the menace of cultism and kidnapping in the state. However, the unit’s first public outing has been marred by controversy and outrage.

According to iReporter Online, the journalist was brutally attacked during a surprise raid by the squad on a hotel in Benin City, where he was lodged. In a video that has since gone viral, Quadri narrated how uniformed operatives stormed his room without identification, demanded he follow them into a van, and attacked him when he asked for clarification.

“I asked who they were and where they were taking me, and the next thing, one slapped me and another sprayed tear gas in my eyes,” Quadri lamented. “They beat me up, tore my clothes, and tried to snatch my necklace. If not for the intervention of the Chief Press Secretary, I’d be in prison by now.”

Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, confirmed the incident during a radio interview. He disclosed that he was present during the operation and intervened immediately after recognizing the victim.

“As soon as I saw him being dragged out, I ran to stop them,” Itua said. “They had already bundled him into the bus, but I physically intervened and ordered them to release him. It was a clear case of mistaken identity.”

According to iReporter Online, Itua expressed deep disappointment in the conduct of some squad members and admitted he had personally accompanied them on the first day of operations due to concerns that such incidents might occur. He revealed that he had to “almost go physical” with the officers to prevent further harm to the journalist.

Public reactions to the development have been intense, with many condemning the assault as an example of Nigeria’s growing disregard for press freedom and human rights. Some commentators noted that countless innocent Nigerians are behind bars today due to the reckless actions of overzealous security operatives, according to iReporter Online.

The incident has ignited a broader conversation about the conduct of security forces and the need for accountability, especially in operations involving newly constituted special task forces.

”IREPORTER REPORTS”