…union demands prosecution of attackers, protection for media workers
By Queen Kunde
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on the Federal Government, security agencies and other relevant institutions to end impunity for crimes against journalists and ensure that perpetrators of attacks on media professionals are brought to justice.
The union made the call on Monday as the world marks the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, November 2, reaffirming its commitment to defending press freedom and protecting journalists from intimidation, harassment and violence.
In a statement signed by its National President, Alhassan Yahya, the NUJ expressed concern over the continued cases of unlawful arrests, physical attacks, cyberbullying, harassment and detention of journalists in Nigeria and other parts of the world for carrying out their professional duties.
The union described journalism as a pillar of democracy, noting that journalists play a critical role in holding those in power accountable, giving voice to the voiceless and providing citizens with accurate information.
It warned that failure to investigate and punish those responsible for crimes against journalists encourages further attacks, weakens the rule of law and creates fear among media professionals.
The NUJ urged government and security agencies to independently and transparently investigate all unresolved cases of attacks, harassment and unlawful detention of journalists and ensure that offenders face the full weight of the law.
It also called for stronger legal protection against arbitrary arrests, censorship and abuse of administrative or security regulations, stressing that press freedom is a constitutional right that must be respected.
The union further urged security agencies to see journalists as partners in democratic development rather than adversaries, while calling for collaboration among media organisations, civil society groups and international partners to establish effective safety measures and emergency support for journalists working in dangerous environments.
The NUJ appealed to human rights organisations, civil society groups and Nigerians to join the campaign for a safe media environment where journalists can perform their duties without fear or favour.
It stressed that attacks on journalists are not only attacks on media professionals but also threats to democratic governance and the people’s right to know.
“No journalist should pay with their safety, freedom or life for reporting the truth,” the union declared.
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