The Association of Kwara Online Media Practitioners (ASKOMP) has expressed strong concern over the continued detention of the Publisher of NupekoTV, Mr. Tauheed Mohammed, who is currently facing multiple court cases over alleged defamation of character filed by the Kwara State Commissioner for Water Resources, Hon. Usman Lade.
In a statement issued on Friday by its Chairman, Salihu Shola Taofeek, ASKOMP said it is actively engaging relevant stakeholders to facilitate the release of Mr. Mohammed, who was remanded at the Oke Kura Correctional Centre, Ilorin, on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, following criminal charges instituted by the Commissioner.
The association noted that while every citizen, including public officials, reserves the right to seek redress in court, the decision to pursue both civil and criminal defamation suits simultaneously against a journalist raises serious concerns about the misuse of the law to silence the media.
“ASKOMP strongly condemns the growing trend of using defamation laws as tools of intimidation and harassment against journalists,” the Chairman stated.
“It is regrettable that the Honourable Commissioner chose to file both civil and criminal charges over the same matter, despite an ongoing civil case seeking ₦10 million in damages for a report published by NupekoTV in September 2024.”
He added that ASKOMP remains committed to promoting ethical journalism, professionalism, and international best practices in news reporting.
The association further called for the repeal of sections of the defamation law that are being weaponized to criminalize journalism and suppress press freedom.
“Democracy thrives on a free and responsible press. Laws that seek to silence journalists undermine that foundation,” ASKOMP concluded.
