By John Dike Osogbo
Urges security agencies to investigate unresolved cases, guarantee press freedom and protect media professionals
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on the Federal Government, security agencies and relevant institutions to ensure the prompt investigation and prosecution of perpetrators of crimes against journalists, warning that continued impunity poses a serious threat to press freedom and democratic governance.
The union made the call in a statement issued by its National President, Alhassan Yahya, to commemorate the 2026 International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, observed globally on November 2.
The NUJ expressed solidarity with journalists and other media professionals across Nigeria and the world, reaffirming its commitment to defending press freedom, protecting media workers and seeking justice for those targeted, harassed, detained or attacked in the course of their professional duties.
It described journalism as a fundamental pillar of democracy, noting that the media plays a critical role in holding public office holders accountable, amplifying the voices of marginalised groups and providing citizens with access to accurate and reliable information.
However, the union expressed concern that journalists in Nigeria and other parts of the world continued to face intimidation, unlawful arrests, physical assaults, cyberbullying and other forms of violence while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
According to the NUJ, the failure to investigate and prosecute those responsible for attacks on journalists creates an atmosphere of fear, discourages investigative reporting and undermines the rule of law.
It warned that when perpetrators of violence against media professionals escape justice, public confidence in democratic institutions is weakened, while journalists may resort to self-censorship to avoid further victimisation.
To address the situation, the union called for thorough, independent and transparent investigations into all reported cases of harassment, physical attacks and unlawful detention involving journalists, insisting that those found culpable must be brought to justice.
It also urged the government to strengthen and enforce existing legal frameworks that protect media professionals against arbitrary arrests, censorship and administrative abuse under the guise of security regulations.
The NUJ further called on law enforcement agencies and security personnel to recognise journalists as essential partners in democratic development rather than adversaries, stressing the need to respect their constitutional responsibilities.
The union also advocated stronger collaboration among media organisations, civil society groups and international partners to establish effective safety mechanisms and emergency support networks for journalists operating in high-risk environments.
It urged human rights organisations, civil society groups and members of the public to join the campaign for an environment where journalists could perform their duties without intimidation, harassment or fear of reprisal.
Reiterating its position on the protection of media professionals, the NUJ declared that an attack on a journalist constituted a threat to democratic governance and the public’s right to know.
“No journalist should pay with their safety, freedom, or life for reporting the truth,” the union stated.
The statement was signed by Yahya, who reaffirmed the union’s determination to continue advocating justice for journalists and the protection of press freedom across the country.
