By Victor Livinus
Nigerian journalist and press freedom advocate, Livinus Chibuike Victor, has recounted his alleged arrest, physical assault and detention by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), calling for greater protection of journalists and accountability for attacks against media professionals.
Victor made the disclosure in a statement issued on November 2, 2026, to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.
Reflecting on his experiences, the journalist described the occasion as both a moment to remember the challenges he has faced in the course of his work and a celebration of his survival.
He alleged that he was repeatedly harassed, detained and physically assaulted because of his journalism and press freedom advocacy.
Recounting his most recent experience, Victor said he was arrested by DSS operatives on May 1, 2026, upon arriving at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, from London aboard a Royal Air Maroc flight.
He alleged that he was beaten and harassed during the incident.
According to him, he was also instructed after his release to remove news reports and social media publications relating to the March edition of Arabella Star Magazine.
Victor said he had previously been accused of allegedly putting Nigeria in a bad light and being stubborn, adding that such experiences reflected the pressure journalists face when reporting on powerful individuals and institutions.
He expressed concern over what he described as increasing intimidation of journalists since the All Progressives Congress (APC) came to power in 2015.
The journalist warned that attacks, threats and unlawful restrictions against media professionals undermine democratic accountability, limit citizens’ access to information and encourage self-censorship.
“Every journalist killed or silenced by terror leaves society with one fewer observer of the human condition. Every attack on the press distorts reality by creating a climate of fear and self-censorship,” he said.
He called on security agencies to uphold professionalism, impartiality and respect for the rule of law, warning against the use of national security as a justification for intimidating journalists or suppressing legitimate reporting.
Victor also demanded credible investigations into reported attacks against journalists and accountability for anyone found responsible, irrespective of their position or influence.
Beyond his personal experience, he paid tribute to journalists across Nigeria and the world who continue to report despite threats, political pressure, physical attacks and detention.
He particularly acknowledged media professionals working in conflict zones, investigating corruption, exposing abuses of power and amplifying the experiences of vulnerable communities.
He also expressed solidarity with families of journalists who have been killed or disappeared, insisting that they deserve justice, answers and lasting remembrance.
“Today, I celebrate not because the struggle is over, but because I am still here to tell my story,” Victor said.
He reaffirmed his commitment to press freedom and urged governments, security institutions, the judiciary, civil society organisations and citizens to work together to end impunity for crimes against journalists.
Victor maintained that journalists should not have to choose between their personal safety and professional responsibilities.
“Journalism is not a crime, asking questions is not treason, and holding power accountable is not an offence,” he declared.
