The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has condemned what it described as the harassment and verbal intimidation of journalists by Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, following a recent media engagement in the state.
In a press release signed by its President, Alhassan Yahya, the union said it was “deeply troubling” that a journalist performing his constitutional and professional duty was allegedly subjected to hostility for requesting verifiable data to demonstrate the impact of government policies on the lives of Abia residents.
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According to the statement, the journalist had asked for measurable evidence of governance outcomes during the interaction with the governor. The NUJ stressed that seeking data to assess policy impact is neither provocative nor disrespectful, but a fundamental responsibility of journalists.
“In a democracy, public office holders are accountable to the people, and the media serves as a legitimate bridge between the government and the governed,” the statement read.
The union warned that any attempt to intimidate journalists for demanding accountability undermines democratic values and press freedom. It reminded public officials that freedom of expression and press freedom are guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The NUJ called on Governor Otti to refrain from actions or statements that may intimidate journalists in the discharge of their duties, uphold transparency by providing verifiable data when requested, and publicly reaffirm his administration’s commitment to press freedom and constructive media engagement.
Reaffirming its stance, the union said it stands firmly with journalists in Abia State and across the country, pledging to continue defending the rights, safety and professional integrity of media practitioners.
“A free press is not an adversary of government — it is a partner in progress,” the statement added.