The Nigeria Union of Journalists, or NUJ, Federal Capital Territory, or FCT Council, has once again urged government officials, law enforcement organizations, and other stakeholders to guarantee the security, safety, and dignity of media professionals in Nigeria as the world commemorates the 2025 International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.
Comrade Jide Oyekunle, the Secretary of the Council, denounced all types of violence and intimidation directed at journalists in a statement released in Abuja on Sunday, calling them an attack on freedom of expression and democracy.
This year’s commemoration of the Day, according to the Council, serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing threats, harassment, and violence that journalists encounter while performing their duties, as well as the startling lack of punishment for those who commit these crimes.
It voiced grave worry over the ongoing rise in attacks on media professionals, which frequently go unpunished and include physical assaults, wrongful arrests, and intimidation.
“The truth is suppressed in a society when journalists are silenced. When people who provide information to the public are routinely harassed, abused, or wrongfully imprisoned, we cannot create an open and accountable democracy,” the statement said.
The Council also called on the Federal Government and security authorities to show a sincere commitment to putting an end to impunity by looking into all recent and historical instances of attacks on journalists in detail and bringing charges against those responsible, regardless of their social or political status.
Additionally, it urged state and non-state actors to uphold journalists’ constitutional rights, ensuring their freedom to report without fear or hindrance.
It further stated that the culture of impunity not only puts journalists in risk but also jeopardizes the public’s right to know.
“Justice for society is justice for journalists.” The statement emphasized that every assault on a journalist is an assault on truth, responsibility, and the public’s access to information.
In order to guarantee that all members of the press may perform their jobs in a safe and responsible manner, the Council reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to protecting press freedom, advancing the welfare of journalists, and collaborating with pertinent partners.
It also urged society to never forget the sacrifice made by journalists who have suffered, been imprisoned, or lost their lives in pursuing the truth.
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