NUJ Urges FG to Investigate, Prosecute Attacks and Harassment Against Journalists

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on the Federal Government, security agencies and relevant institutions to investigate and prosecute those responsible for attacks, harassment and unlawful detention of journalists across the country.

The union also urged authorities to strengthen legal protections for media professionals and ensure that security agencies respect press freedom as a constitutional right.

The NUJ made the demands in a statement issued by its 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 continued intimidation, arbitrary arrests, physical assaults, cyberbullying and other forms of violence targeting journalists in Nigeria and other parts of the world.

It warned that the failure to hold perpetrators accountable creates an atmosphere of fear among media professionals and weakens democratic accountability.

“Journalism remains the bedrock of any thriving democracy. It holds the powerful accountable, gives voice to the marginalised, and ensures the public’s fundamental right to accurate information,” the statement said.

The union further warned that impunity for crimes against journalists undermines democratic discourse, erodes public trust in institutions and encourages self-censorship among media practitioners.

“The impunity that surrounds crimes committed against journalists creates a chilling effect on democratic discourse and weakens the rule of law,” it added.

The NUJ called for all reported cases of harassment, physical attacks and unlawful detention of journalists to be investigated thoroughly, independently and transparently, insisting that those responsible must face justice.

It also urged the government to enforce existing laws protecting journalists against arbitrary arrests, censorship and the misuse of security regulations to intimidate media workers.

The union called on security agencies to recognise journalists as essential workers and partners in democratic governance rather than treating them as adversaries.

Additionally, it urged media organisations, civil society groups and international partners to work together to establish safety protocols and emergency support networks, particularly for journalists operating in high-risk environments.

The NUJ also appealed to human rights organisations and members of the public to support efforts to create an environment where journalists can carry out their professional responsibilities without fear or intimidation.

“A threat to any journalist anywhere is a threat to democratic governance everywhere,” the union stated.

It added: “No journalist should pay with their safety, freedom, or life for reporting the truth.”

The International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists is observed annually on November 2 to highlight attacks against media professionals and promote accountability for crimes committed against them.