(IJC/IFEX) – On 21 July 1999, Toyin Coker, a journalist in the news and current affairs department of African Independent Televison (AIT), was arrested by the police in Shagamu, Ogun state. Shagamu, a town in Nigeria’s south-west region, has been in a crisis over the past weeks because of a clash between Yoruba indigenous people […]
(IJC/IFEX) – On 21 July 1999, Toyin Coker, a journalist in the news and
current affairs department of African Independent Televison (AIT), was
arrested by the police in Shagamu, Ogun state.
Shagamu, a town in Nigeria’s south-west region, has been in a crisis over
the past weeks because of a clash between Yoruba indigenous people and
Hausas who reside in the town. The crisis has so far claimed more than fifty
lives and has led to reckless destruction of property.
Coker was in the town to cover the crisis when he was arrested along with
other suspects. Reports said that the reporter was given a ride by a
motorist in the town who was stopped by the police at a checkpoint. The
driver of the vehicle was searched and arms and ammunitions were found in
his possession. Consequently, the occupants of the vehicle, including the
journalist – who reportedly showed his identity card – were thrown into a
cell at Makun police station, which is in the town.
The journalist was released on 22 July after a night of torture and intense
interrogation by the police.
