Journalist attacked in Nassarawa

Thugs suspected to be loyal to the ruling party, APC, in Nasarawa State on Friday beat a Daily Trust correspondent in the state, Mr. Hir Joseph to unconsciousness during Governor Tanko Al-Makura’s inauguration in Lafia, the state capital.

It is believed that the thugs were angry over reports and criticisms on President Muhammadu Buhari and Governor Al-Makura recently, Saturday Punch reports.

The thugs also accused Joseph of writing unwanted reports in the state.

The incident occurred at 11.30 am, shortly after the governor and his deputy, Mr. Salias Agara, took their oaths of office at the Lafia parade ground. Saturday PUNCH correspondent who was at the scene of the event noted that security operatives were able to rescue Joseph after throwing teargas canisters at the miscreants and chasing them away. Joseph was later rushed to Dalhatu Specialist Hospital, Lafia for medical treatment.

Narrating his ordeal to our correspondent, Joseph said:

 “I was watching the inauguration with some colleagues when the thugs who had the inscription ‘Ta’Al Boys’ on their T-shirts demanded that I follow them. I asked why they wanted me to follow them but they gave no answer. Rather, they pounced on me and dragging me at the same time. I only woke up in the hospital after.”