NUJ Urges NSCDC to Respect Press Freedom
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Zone D (North Central), has asked the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to respect press freedom and allow journalists to do their work without interference.
The union reacted to reports that the editor of Kogi Reports, Mr. Opeyemi Owoeye, was arrested and detained by NSCDC officers in Kogi State.
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In a statement, the NUJ said the incident raises concerns about the role of security agencies in a democratic society and the protection of freedom of expression guaranteed by Nigeria’s Constitution.
The Vice President of NUJ Zone D, Alhaji Adeiza Momoh Jimoh, urged the NSCDC in Kogi State to act professionally, fairly, and according to the law. He warned that security agencies should not be used by individuals or politicians to pursue personal or political interests.
The union said it is not the responsibility of the NSCDC to judge whether a news report is true or false or to detain journalists over stories involving public officials.
According to the NUJ, anyone who feels offended by a media report should use legal channels to seek justice instead of involving security agencies.
The union also called on politicians and public office holders not to use government security institutions to intimidate journalists or other citizens exercising their constitutional rights.
It stressed that democracy grows stronger when there is accountability, transparency, and freedom of expression.
The NUJ described the reported action of the NSCDC in Kogi State as a threat to press freedom and called on the Commandant-General of the NSCDC to investigate the matter and hold any officer who acted outside the law accountable.
The union reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, the rule of law, and the rights of citizens, while urging all stakeholders to support a safe environment where journalists can work without fear, intimidation, or harassment.
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