ASKOMP Intervenes in NupekoTV Publisher’s Issue, Condemns Intimidation of Journalists With Defamation Law

The Association Kwara Online Media Practitioners (ASKOMP) stand in solidarity with the Publisher of NupekoTV, Tauheed Mohammed who is facing multiple court cases on alleged defamation of character filed by Kwara State Commissioner for Water Resources, Hon Usman Lade.

ASKOMP in a statement issued on Friday by their Chairman, Salihu Shola Taofeek hinted that the Association is currently mediating to secure freedom of Mr Tauheed Mohammed.

According to him, the Publisher of NupekoTV, Tauheed Mohammed was remanded in Oke Kura Correctional Centre, Ilorin on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 following criminal charges by the aggrieved Kwara Commissioner in spite of the ongoing civil case by the same complainant.

ASKOMP while acknowledging the right of any aggrieved citizen to approach court to seek redress as earlier done by Hon Usman Lade where is seeking N10million compensation over story published by NupekoTV in September 2024, however expressed displeasure over the fresh criminal charges filed by the Commissioner.

His words: “ASKOMP maintains its position by condemning systematic attempt of highly placed individuals to intimidate and harass journalists by using the defamation law. It’s unfortunate that the honourable Commissioner filed both civil and criminal charges against NupekoTV Publisher simultaneously. The Association is currently engaging parties involved to facilitate prompt and amicable resolution.”

The Chairman said the association will continue to promote professionalism, objective reporting and international best practices.

The Association demands for the repel of that section of the law, which is being weaponised to criminalise the practice of journalism.