Sanwo-Olu Moves To Settle Clash Between CSO And Journalists

The Lagos State Government has moved to calm tensions after a reported confrontation between Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s Chief Security Officer, Kunle Fagbemi, and members of the press.

The incident took place on Saturday during an empowerment programme held at the Lagos House in Ikeja.

The clash occurred as the governor’s press crew arrived at the venue in their official bus. Witnesses said the CSO stopped the journalists, accusing them of being disruptive and unprofessional, which led to a heated exchange. Some journalists claimed they were insulted and intimidated while trying to gain access to cover the event.

The programme, which was organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals in partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative of First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, was designed to support 1,000 women across Lagos. However, the altercation drew attention away from the event and raised concerns among reporters over their safety while covering government activities.

Although no physical violence was reported, members of the press described the encounter as part of a recurring pattern of harassment at official functions. They have called on the governor to take a firm stance to prevent such incidents in the future.

Attempts to reach the CSO for his side of the story yielded conflicting responses. A phone number linked to him was answered by someone who denied being Fagbemi, adding to the confusion surrounding the case.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s media aide, Gboyega Akosile, later confirmed that the matter had been brought to his attention. He assured that the dispute would be resolved amicably, stressing that the administration does not tolerate intimidation of journalists.

Akosile explained that both security personnel and journalists have critical roles to play and must respect each other’s duties. He noted that the government had already met with the press corps, offered an apology, and discussed the matter with the CSO involved. He attributed the clash to a misunderstanding and pledged that steps were being taken to ensure it does not happen again.

The episode has placed renewed focus on the relationship between security operatives and the media in Lagos, with journalists urging for greater cooperation and respect in order to carry out their responsibilities without fear.