In a powerful stand for journalistic integrity, Musikilu Mojeed, President of the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria, has decisively responded to recent unfounded media allegations designed to undermine his reputation and professional work.

Mojeed, who also serves as editor-in-chief of Premium Times, refused to be intimidated by false reports published in The Authority and Peoples Daily newspapers that claimed he lacked professional integrity.

The newspapers quickly retracted their stories after Global Rights Nigeria confirmed it had never issued the statements originally cited. Both publications issued formal apologies, with The Authority's Executive Director Chuks Akunna describing the report as a "regrettable and phantom" story potentially planted by a former employee.

Mojeed linked these attacks directly to IPI Nigeria's recent decision to blacklist two governors and the inspector-general of police for their repressive actions against journalists. He characterized the smear campaign as an attempt by "shadowy interests" to discredit the organization's leadership through coordinated misinformation.

In a resolute communication to IPI Nigeria members, Mojeed stated unequivocally: "No amount of intimidation, mudslinging, or character assassination will deter IPI Nigeria from its mission. We remain committed to press freedom, journalists' safety, ethical journalism, and an improved operating environment for the Nigerian media."

The Peoples Daily explicitly acknowledged the baselessness of their allegations, stating that a detailed fact-check revealed the claims were "unsubstantiated, speculative, and did not reflect Mr. Mojeed's true character or professional conduct".

Mojeed emphasized that he would take "appropriate legal and other steps" to defend his integrity while remaining focused on the organization's core responsibilities. He urged IPI Nigeria members to resist amplifying falsehoods and remain united in confronting challenges to press freedom.

The incident highlights the ongoing struggles of journalists in Nigeria to report transparently while facing potential intimidation from powerful interests. Mojeed's principled response demonstrates a commitment to maintaining journalistic standards in the face of external pressures.