A controversy is unfolding in Port Harcourt following a fire incident at the premises of Salvation Ministries, where a journalist who raised an alarm about the blaze found himself at the center of an alleged violent attack.
Broadcast journalist Precious Amadi claims he was brutally assaulted and unlawfully detained by members of the church after posting an emergency call for help on Facebook. The incident, which has sparked widespread condemnation, is now raising serious concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists in Nigeria.
From Fire to Fury: How a Call for Help Turned Violent
According to Amadi, the fire broke out on March 15, prompting him to assist in evacuating flammable furniture and attempting to contact the Rivers State Fire Service. Frustrated by the delayed response, he posted an SOS message online urging people to call for assistance.
However, what followed was unexpected. Instead of being commended for his efforts, Amadi alleges he was accused of spying by church members, who then attacked him.
“My only crime in the eyes of the overzealous members of Salvation Ministries was posting an SOS on Facebook, urging people to call the Rivers State Fire Service to help put out the fire,” he said in a video that surfaced online.
Amadi claims he was beaten unconscious, his two mobile phones destroyed, and his social media posts deleted without his consent. He also alleges that junior pastors supervised the attack, further deepening the controversy.
Related News: Fire Incident at Salvation Ministries HQ in Port Harcourt Sparks Controversy
MRA Demands Justice
Condemning the incident, Media Rights Agenda (MRA) described the alleged attack as a gross violation of press freedom and fundamental human rights.
“No journalist should ever face intimidation, harassment, or physical harm for their reporting,” said MRA Programme Officer, John Gbadamosi.
He called on the Federal Government and law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and hold those responsible accountable.
Silence or Action? Church Leadership Under Pressure
Beyond the legal implications, the incident has put a spotlight on Salvation Ministries, with growing calls for the church’s leadership to address the matter. MRA has urged the church to publicly condemn the attack and assist in identifying those involved.
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