By Danjuma Attah, Gombe
President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahya, has joined calls for an end to systemic intimidation, unlawful arrests, physical assault, cyberbullying, and unprosecuted violence against Journalists in Nigeria.
November 2nd, is observed as the International Day to end impunity for crimes against Journalists and Comrade Yahya said the NUJ stands in solidarity with media professionals across the nation and the world.
Comrade Yahya made the call on Monday in Abuja and stressed that, “We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to defending freedom of the press, protecting media workers, and advocating for justice for all journalists targeted, harassed, detained, or harmed in the line of duty”.
He stated also that, “Journalism remains the bedrock of any thriving democracy as it holds the powerful accountable, gives voice to the marginalized, and ensures the public’s fundamental right to accurate information”.
He regretted however that, “across Nigeria and globally, journalists continue to face systemic intimidation, unlawful arrests, physical assault, cyberbullying, and unprosecuted violence simply for fulfilling their constitutional responsibility”.
The impunity that surrounds crimes committed against journalists creates a chilling effect on democratic discourse and weakens the rule of law and Comrade Yahya adds that, when perpetrators of violence against news creators face no legal consequences, public trust in institutions is eroded, and society at large suffers from suppressed truth and heightened self-censorship.
The NUJ categorically called upon all arms of Government, security agencies, and relevant institutions to: investigate and Prosecute Unresolved Cases; thoroughly, independently, and transparently investigate all reported incidents of harassment, physical attacks, and unlawful detentions targeting journalists, while ensuring that culprits are brought to swift justice.
The Union also called for a Guaranteed Legal Protection and Safety for its members; Enforce legislative framework and legal protections that safeguard media professionals from arbitrary arrests, censorship, and administrative abuse under the guise of security regulations.
It said respect to Press Freedom as a Constitutional Right; Ensuring that law enforcement agencies and State security personnel recognize journalists as essential workers and democratic partners, rather than adversaries must be upheld.
“Foster Safe Environments for Media Workers; Collaborate with media organizations, civil society, and international partners to establish effective safety protocols and emergency support networks for reporters in high-risk environments”, it advised.
“The NUJ reiterates that a threat to any journalist anywhere is a threat to democratic governance everywhere. We call on civil society groups, human rights organizations, and citizens to join us in demanding an environment where journalists can operate freely without fear or favor.
“No journalist should pay with their safety, freedom, or life for reporting the truth”, Comrade Yahya emphasized.
End.
