The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has urged the Federal Government and security agencies to investigate and prosecute perpetrators of attacks, harassment, and unlawful detention of journalists in the country. This call was made in a statement issued by the NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya, on Monday to mark the 2026 International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. The union expressed concern over the persistent intimidation, unlawful arrests, physical assaults, cyberbullying, and other forms of violence against journalists in Nigeria and across the world.
The NUJ warned that the failure to hold perpetrators accountable creates an atmosphere of fear among media professionals and undermines democratic accountability. Journalism, according to the union, remains the bedrock of any thriving democracy, holding the powerful accountable, giving voice to the marginalized, and ensuring the public's fundamental right to accurate information. The statement emphasized that impunity for crimes against journalists has serious consequences for democracy and the rule of law.
The union added that when perpetrators of violence against journalists face no legal consequences, public trust in institutions is eroded, while self-censorship is encouraged. The NUJ called for thorough, independent, and transparent investigations into all reported cases of harassment, physical attacks, and unlawful detention of journalists, insisting that those responsible must be brought to justice. The union also urged the government to enforce existing laws and legal protections against arbitrary arrests, censorship, and the misuse of security regulations to intimidate media workers.
The NUJ further called on security agencies to recognize journalists as essential workers and partners in democratic governance rather than adversaries. The union urged media organizations, civil society groups, and international partners to collaborate in establishing safety protocols and emergency support networks, particularly for reporters working in high-risk environments. This, according to the union, will help create an environment where journalists can perform their professional duties without fear or intimidation.
The International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists is observed annually on November 2 to draw attention to attacks on media professionals and the need to ensure accountability for crimes committed against them. The NUJ emphasized that a threat to any journalist anywhere is a threat to democratic governance everywhere, adding that no journalist should pay with their safety, freedom, or life for reporting the truth.
The union's statement comes amid concerns over the increasing cases of violence and intimidation against journalists in Nigeria. According to the NUJ, strengthening legal protections for media professionals and ensuring that security agencies respect press freedom as a constitutional right are crucial in addressing these challenges. The union's call for action is a reminder of the critical role that journalists play in promoting democratic accountability and good governance.
The NUJ's demands are part of its efforts to promote a safe and enabling environment for journalists to perform their duties without fear or intimidation. The union's commitment to protecting journalists and promoting press freedom is underscored by its call for collaboration with media organizations, civil society groups, and international partners to establish safety protocols and emergency support networks for reporters.
Key points
- The Nigeria Union of Journalists demands prosecution of perpetrators of attacks on journalists.
- The union calls for thorough investigations into cases of harassment and unlawful detention of journalists.
- The NUJ urges the government to enforce existing laws to protect media professionals.
