The management of Albarka Radio 97.5 FM has called on the Bauchi State Police Command to suspend the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Bununu Division, SP Jamilu Kabir, over the alleged assault of one of its reporters during the Sallah celebration.

The station also demanded that the officer face appropriate disciplinary action if found guilty. The call follows an incident on Sunday in Bununu, located in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area, where the journalist was reportedly attacked by the DPO and his team while attempting to gain access to the Sallah Durbar ground.

The development has sparked widespread condemnation from media and civil society groups, including the Nigeria Union of Journalists and the West Africa Editors Society, both of which have called for a thorough investigation and sanctions against those involved.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the station’s General Manager, Dauda Ciroma, described the incident as a “vicious, unprovoked and dehumanising assault” on its staff.

He said the action reflected “high-handedness, overzealousness and sheer irresponsibility disguised as policing,” adding that such conduct has no place in a civilised society. According to him, attacking a journalist performing lawful duties amounts to an attack on democracy and a violation of press freedom as guaranteed by the Constitution.

Ciroma expressed confidence in the leadership of the Bauchi State Council of the NUJ to pursue justice and commended individuals and organisations that have shown solidarity. He noted that their support strengthens the demand for a transparent investigation and swift disciplinary measures.

While acknowledging a statement by the Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, condemning the incident and ordering an investigation, the station insisted that the DPO be suspended pending the outcome to ensure transparency and prevent interference.

Albarka Radio warned that failure to act decisively could be interpreted as tacit approval of the alleged misconduct. It added that although it maintains a cordial relationship with the police command, the actions of the officer involved threaten that relationship and must not go unpunished.

Responding to the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, Nafiu Abubakar, confirmed that the Commissioner of Police had ordered a full investigation into the incident.

He stressed that the police are mandated to protect lives and property, not to assault civilians, describing the incident as unacceptable. He also assured that any officer found culpable would face appropriate sanctions.

The command further disclosed that an investigative and disciplinary panel has been set up to handle the matter in accordance with established laws and procedures.